Antique Gold Ring with a Roman Intaglio Representing Minerva

Gold and Silver Ring Set with a Roman Amethyst Intaglio Depicting the Attributes of Minerva.

Roman intaglio, circa 1st century B.C. – 1st century A.D.

Ring mount, late 19th century.

Measurements
Ring size: O ½ UK / 7.5 US / 56 EU.
Weight: 3.35 grams.

Description
A gold and silver ring set with an oval Roman amethyst cabochon intaglio engraved with the attributes of Minerva—the Roman goddess of wisdom and war, counterpart of the Greek Athena. The violet stone depicts an owl, a crested helmet, a spear, and a sword, emblems of her intellect, strategy, and martial virtue.

The intaglio is mounted in a late nineteenth-century setting with a serrated bezel and eight rose-cut diamonds in closed-back silver collets. Its openwork triple-split shank with transverse bars exemplifies the neo-classical revival taste of the period, harmoniously combining an ancient gem with a refined nineteenth-century mount.

Condition
Minor wear consistent with age; gemstone with light surface wear and inclusions; structurally sound and well preserved