Ancient Roman Talismanic Intaglio Ring
Circa 200-300 A.D. an ancient talismanic Roman ring crafted in 22k gold featuring a carnelian intaglio carved with a name or phrase in what appears to be Coptic, an archaic language evolved from ancient Egyptian that was written using Greek letters, with additional characters added to represent sounds not found in Greek of the time.
While imagery was the most popular motif for Roman intaglios, inscribed phrases were also used and mostly focused on benedictions, inspirational mottos or magical words considered apotropaic- protective against the evil eye, sickness or general bad luck. They also might consist of the name of the intended owner coupled with a blessing or favorable wish.
Details: Measuring approximately 6.74 mm (about 1/4") north to south across the face with a 1.06 mm width at the center back. The construction corresponds to ancient methods of goldsmithing: forming the bezel cup and hoop with thin sheets of high karat gold, carefully constructed to create a form that is relatively hollow but appears solid. As noted in "Rings of the Ancient World", Spier, page 14: Pliny the Elder (AD 23-79) wrote that Roman gem-set rings were often crafted of thin sheet gold so that if dropped the gold structure would crumble or dent, rather than chip or shatter the stone: gold being easier to repair or replace than a broken stone.
The ring XRF tests to 22k, with silver and copper in the alloy, both metals used in ancient gold alloys. Weighs approximately 3.4 grams.
Similar ring types are shown in several reference texts, "Ancient Rings", T.N. Pollio, page 60, 61, 68, and 69. Also similar examples in The V & A Museum, accession numbers M.223-1917, 583-1871, and 581-1871.
Size: Ancient Roman rings rings don't size on a mandrel the same way as modern rings, due to the shape of their hoops- often a D or oblong form. This example fits like a modern 4-4 1/2. Personally I have a few of this type in my collection and prefer to wear them as pendants hung on silk cord.
The ring is not resizable.
Condition: Over all in excellent wearable condition. There are a few dings and marks but nothing obvious or disfiguring. With reasonable care and removal before strenuous activites like housework, sports, etc. the ring should well serve for this and future generations.