Egyptian Sphinx Ring In Carved Rock Crystal, Late 19th Century

A rare and exquisite Egyptian Sphinx ring in carved rock crystal, dating from the late 19th century. An exceptional sculptural jewel. The rock crystal displays remarkable transparency, and the supreme skill of its master lapidary-sculptor is truly enchanting. The attention to detail on such a small scale is remarkable; it is a work of art in jewelry. It is in good condition considering its age. From ancient Egypt to the Renaissance, by way of the Roman Empire, rock crystal was highly prized. The essential criteria for evaluating the rock crystal used were its natural transparency and the absence of inclusions. The most precious displayed absolute transparency, similar to that of glass, while the most sought-after had to be the color of clear water. Hyaline quartz, from the Greek "krystallos yalos" or transparent crystal, is a completely colorless variety of quartz and must be perfectly transparent to merit the name rock crystal.