A very old and regal carnelian horse intaglio ring, in silver from Afghanistan circa the 1900s to 1950; purchased from a museum collection after the coups and during the USSR occupation.

This incredible Middle Eastern piece is handcrafted out of silver with wonderful silver hand-etching workmanship. The ring has been bezel set with a solitaire round shaped carnelian totaling, approximately 12 to 14 carats. The gem is a deep reddish-brown color and has been engraved with a horse running through a field. The ring is in excellent vintage condition with one exception: the back of the ring has been cut to apparently reduce the size. One can see where the change is made but it is unnoticeable when on the hand. Perhaps a son, daughter or grandchild reduced the size of the ring so it could be worn. The face of the carnelian intaglio is approximately 1 x 3/4 inches. The ring is in excellent condition except for the single splice described above. I have not cleaned it and it has a lovely patina. The silver is not marked but it has not tarnished while it was stored. It is likely 800 silver. The ring is currently a size 9. A true collectible that can be worn.