Silver And Gold Ring With A Carnelian Intaglio - Roman Period - 3rd Century Ad

Silver and gold ring with carnelian intaglio - Roman period - 3rd century AD. A well-preserved Roman silver and gold ring from the 3rd century AD. The solid silver band measures 21 millimeters in inner diameter. The rounded band tapers slightly towards the back. The oval bezel features an engraved intaglio of red-orange carnelian, set within a silver collar. A thin gold band directly encircles the stone, creating the characteristic bimetallic combination of Roman metalwork. Two ornamental silver spheres flank the bezel on either side. The intaglio bears an incised engraving of two fish. This ichthyological motif was common in Roman glyptics, carrying religious and apotropaic symbolism. This engraving allowed the ring to be used as a personal seal to authenticate documents and correspondence. The piece retains its complete structural integrity. The intaglio is intact, without cracks or chips. The goldsmithing and the quality of the engraving indicate that it was made for the wealthy classes of the Roman Empire. Fine condition. 2.73g