600-900 AD. Byzantine. A rare medieval gold ring with a hexagonal hoop and zoomorphic bezel in the form of a bird in flight; the bird’s back is decorated with a teardrop shaped garnet cabochon and granulated borders. The medieval empire of Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the royalty and aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This beautiful item may once have belonged to a Byzantine noblewoman. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 17.13mm / US: 6 3/4 / UK: N1/2; 5.7g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.