Antique Carnelian Hermes Ring
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Buying Antique Rings Online: Sizing, Resizing and Wearability
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A British gold signet ring, c.1900, set with a carnelian intaglio of Hermes, messenger of the gods, in his winged hat.Hermes, Mercury to the Romans, was the swift-footed herald of Olympus. He was the god of travellers, trade and good fortune, of eloquence and cunning, and the guide who led souls safely to the underworld. As the patron of merchants and journeys, he was a natural choice for a signet ring.Here he is shown in profile, his curls falling beneath the petasos, the broad-brimmed travelling hat with a small wing rising from the crown. The face is cleanly carved, with a straight Classical nose and a firm jaw.The carnelian is a warm, glowing dark-red, the stone favoured for seals since antiquity because hot wax does not stick to it. It sits in a simple rubbed-over bezel with an open back, so light passes through the stone. The mount is 9K gold with a soft rosy tone.Neat and understated, it suits a little finger or a slim hand, and wears well every day.Details: c.1900; United Kingdom; carnelian intaglio 10 x 8mm; 9K rose-toned gold, open-backed bezel; 2.07g; UK O, US 7¼.Condition: Good. Light wear to the gold and fine surface scratches to the stone, consistent with age.
A British gold signet ring, c.1900, set with a carnelian intaglio of Hermes, messenger of the gods, in his winged hat.
Hermes, Mercury to the Romans, was the swift-footed herald of Olympus. He was the god of travellers, trade and good fortune, of eloquence and cunning, and the guide who led souls safely to the underworld. As the patron of merchants and journeys, he was a natural choice for a signet ring.
Here he is shown in profile, his curls falling beneath the petasos, the broad-brimmed travelling hat with a small wing rising from the crown. The face is cleanly carved, with a straight Classical nose and a firm jaw.
The carnelian is a warm, glowing dark-red, the stone favoured for seals since antiquity because hot wax does not stick to it. It sits in a simple rubbed-over bezel with an open back, so light passes through the stone. The mount is 9K gold with a soft rosy tone.
Neat and understated, it suits a little finger or a slim hand, and wears well every day.
Details: c.1900; United Kingdom; carnelian intaglio 10 x 8mm; 9K rose-toned gold, open-backed bezel; 2.07g; UK O, US 7¼.
Condition: Good. Light wear to the gold and fine surface scratches to the stone, consistent with age.
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