Roman nicolo ring engraved with garnets, 3rd century AD.

An important ancient nicolo ring engraved with garnets.

Roman, 3rd century AD.

Ring size approximately U UK / 10.5 US.

Weighs 22 grams.

The nicolo measures 2.2 x 1.8cm.

The ring measures overall 2.9 x 2.6 x 2.4cm.

Provenance: Private English Collection, formed between the late 1970’s - early 1990’s.

The ancient gold ring is solid, architectural in form with carved scrolls and inset garnets. The ring is set with a large polished nicolo gem. Although the architectural form of this ring is well known during this period, the use of flush set garnets in the shank appears to be unique. Two garnets from one side of the shank are now absent.

In ancient Rome, gold was more than just a precious metal—it was a powerful status symbol that signified wealth, political influence, and divine favour. The rarity and intrinsic value of gold made it an elite commodity, primarily reserved for the upper echelons of Roman society, including emperors, senators, and high-ranking officials.

Gold was used extensively in coinage, jewellery, and ceremonial regalia, reinforcing social hierarchies. The Roman elite adorned themselves with gold rings, necklaces, and diadems, showcasing their prosperity and rank. Certain gold items, such as the anulus aureus (gold ring), were reserved for the senatorial and equestrian classes, further distinguishing the privileged from the common populace.

A similar example set with a banded agate can be found in the collection of the British Museum, registration number: 1917,0501.802, see also 1917,0501.801.

https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1917-0501-802

https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1917-0501-801

The Musée du Louvre has in it’s collection a comparable ring set with a nicolo intaglio, numéro catalogue : Bj 1288.

https://collections.louvre.fr/ark:/53355/cl010255839