MEDIEVAL GOLD BISHOP’S RING WITH SAPPHIRE CABOCHON
A plain round-section hoop with elliptical bezel and inset sapphire cabochon. The bezel tightly rubbed around the gem, keeping is still securely in position. Such rings with sapphires were popular from the 12th – 14th century. Throughout history, many powers have been attributed to sapphire. During the middle ages, sapphire was believed to shield the wearer from harm and disease and was used as an antidote against poison. It was the stone of choice for the ecclesiastic. Saphires came from India and therefore were very rare and expensive at the time.
This ring would have belonged to someone with significant wealth and power. It’s similar to two rings discovered in Exeter that are believed to have belonged to clergymen from the upper levels of the Church. Over the years, at least a dozen sapphire rings have been found in the graves of Medieval bishops. They were probably worn by bishops as a symbol of their vow to live a life of religious service.
Material: Solid gold 20K+ and sapphire
Weight: 1,05 grams
Date: Medieval period, ca. 13-14th century AD
Measurement: overall: 21 x 19 mm, ringsize: 18 mm
Condition: Perfect
Provenance: Ex. private France collection
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