100-300 AD. Roman. Elaborate gold ring with circular hoop, flaring, scalloped shoulders and elliptical bezel; an oval-shaped carnelian setting bears a portrait of Mars. Mars is depicted as a helmeted youth in profile. Mars is the god of war in Roman religion and mythology, and his Greek counterpart is Ares. Though he is primarily known as the god of war, he is also known as a guardian of agriculture, the god of spring, fertility, virility, and growth in nature. This beautiful item would probably have adorned the hand of a Roman military officer. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 18.8mm / US: 8 7/8 / UK: R 1/2; 22.5g; Provenance: Obtained on the London art market in the early 2000s; formerly from the collection of an English Family, by descents form the 1970s.