c. 1100-1300 AD. Byzantine. Stunning gold ring with unusual tear-drop shaped hoop, double trumpet-shaped projections with pearl settings on each shoulder and an applied square plate setting with a pyramidal dark green glass setting. Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This gorgeous piece may once have adorned the hand of a Byzantine noblewoman. All samples correspond to the metal content of the period specified; no modern trace elements were detected in the patina; expertly cleaned and conserved. Excellent condition’ wearable. Size: D: 16.51mm / US: 6 / UK: M; 8.78g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1990s.