Large Ancient Greek Rock Crystal Gold Ring 2nd Century BC

Circa 2nd century BC. This highly unusual and heavy ancient Greek ring of a complex design is crafted in high karat gold (approximately 21.34 Kt).

It features a large cabochon cut rock crystal set in a hexagonal stepped bezel. The boat-shaped shank of the ring is attached to the bezel with two elaborate hinges resembling architectural elements. A small cabochon carnelian is set to the center of the shank at the bottom. The hexagonal bezel measures 28 x 22 mm (1 1/8 x 7/8 in.) Height of the ring to the top of the rock crystal is 18 mm (3/4 in.)

Weight is 29.68 grams. The rock crystal cabochon measures 16 x 14 mm and is approximately 5 mm high. Metal analysis: 88.92% gold, 7.75% silver, 2.91% copper, 0.42% iron.

Approximate ring size 7.5  (18 mm)

According to the book Rings of the Ancient World by Jeffrey Spier and Jack Ogden, nearly twenty rings of this type are known. All of them are attributed to the same workshop but found in different locations across the Hellenistic world from Italy to Egypt. This style was very popular during the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. The known rings of this type (according to the book) are set with amethysts, emeralds, garnets, and citrines. Our ring could be the only one known set with rock crystal. Rock crystal, a precious stone in antiquity, was thought to be a special form of real ice. A similar ring with garnets from the Griffin collection was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum in 2015. Another ring of this design, also with garnets, from the Met’s own collection is on display at the Hellenistic Treasury (Gallery 163).

Our ring appears to be of a finer quality than the ring at the Met. Condition: overall excellent, the gold setting is solid and in perfect condition, the rock crystal has some internal cracks and some roughness at the top, but appears to be in stable condition, the stone has life and sparkle. The ring has some earth deposits which could be cleaned off if desired.