Ancient Gold Javanese Ring 9th-10th Century Fish and Lotus Flower

This scarce gold intaglio ring dates to the Indonesian Classical period, circa 8th–10th century. The ring is crafted from high-karat gold (22K), featuring a circular bezel that holds an amethyst gemstone engraved with a scorpion motif. Scorpions were often considered symbols of protection in ancient traditions, aligning with Javanese beliefs that rings possessed magical properties to bring good fortune and guard against harm. The stirrup-shaped shoulders, designed to mimic the form of water buffalo horns, are a hallmark of early Javanese craftsmanship. This distinctive design reflects both artistic expression and cultural symbolism rooted in Java’s agricultural and spiritual traditions. Java, one of Indonesia’s largest islands, was a significant centre of civilisation and artistry during this period. Gold rings were not merely decorative but also served as currency, payment for fines, dowries, and even wedding feasts. Imported gemstones, like the present amethyst, were chosen for their astrological, magical, and medicinal properties, further enhancing their importance in Javanese society. Referenced Examples: Similar rings can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Accession No. 1998.544.298). Additional examples are catalogued in Java Gold...

A superb ancient Roman agate intaglio ring. The high-karat gold signet ring is set with an engraved gemstone, known as an ‘intaglio’. It dates from between the 2nd to 3rd century AD and is a fine example of a Romano-British intaglio. The conical-shaped agate gemstone displays various bands of colour ranging from honey brown to greyish-blue. The engraving depicts the bust of a man wearing a helmet, possibly winged which would depict Mercury, the Roman god of commerce, financial gain and communication. In Roman times, people would wear rings with the intaglio of Mercury in hope that the he would protect them and bless them with good financial fortune in their lives. A number of referenced examples of similar ancient Roman conical shaped intaglios reside in notable museums all across the world, from the British Museum to the Louvre. A page with these examples and their sources can be found in the final photos of the listing. Similar examples can also be found in the extensive Alice and Louis Koch collection (items: 234, 235, 241, 301). Again see final images for reference. The gold ring mount is of D-shaped cross-section and a hollow 22K gold construction. The ring has a fantastic smooth silk-like texture when worn. It remains in good overall condition and the intaglio is very secure in the mount. The gold mount dates to the late 18th to early 19th century, and the shape is inspired by ancient Roman ring...

A superb ancient Roman nicolo intaglio set in a late 18th century gold signet ring. Nicolo intaglios are a particular type of intaglio ma...

A scarce and small ancient Roman gold Medusa cameo ring, circa 2nd to 3rd century AD. The carved layered onyx gemstone is white in colour and depicts the bust of Medusa engraved wit...

Byzantine gold icon ring. The central flat circular plaque engraved and with niello, finely depicting the image of Christ with halo between two crosses, all to a slim fully rounded wire shank. Tested yellow gold, approximately 4.9 grams in weight, circa 6th - 10th century...

Ancient Greek 4th Century (330 BC - 220 BC) Alexander the Great 1/4 Stater gold coin (22K gold) - the antique coin recess mounted (prong set from behind) in a 14K yellow gold ring setting with Greek key details to the shoulders - warm aged patina - stamped 585 (14K) - worn maker's mark - Greece - circa 1980's. Excellent antique / vintage condition - all original - coin not viewed outside the mount - no loss - no damage - no repairs - signs of age and use - ready to wear. Coin Size / Dimensions - 7/16" (1.2 cm.) Diameter. Coin Weight...

A unique, museum quality ancient Greek gold ring, circa 4th century BC, likely a wedding ring. The ring is engraved with two wrestling Erotes. When Aphr...

Ancient carnelian intaglio of the goddess Diana holding a bow in her right hand an reaching for an arrow from her quiver. Diana in Roman an Hellenistic culture was the goddess of wil...