This is a wonderful ancient Byzantine jasper intaglio, dating to the 5th - 6th century A.D. The gem is cut with a complex monogram of the original owners name. These are notoriously difficult to decipher, though I can make out O.N.L.Y! During the Byzantine period simple monogram signets were popular, intaglios are rarer. The technology in parts of the old Roman empire had been forgotten, so most signets were cut onto the finger rings rather than on gemstones. This intaglio would have been used and worn by a wealthy aristocrat or nobleman as a symbol of authority, likely set into a gold finger ring and used to seal documents and transactions. Today this ancient gem can be reset into a gold finger ring, or added to your collection.

OBJECT: Intaglio gem

CULTURE: Byzantine

DATE: c. 5th - 6th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Red Jasper gemstone

SIZE: 10.2mm x 8.8mm x 2.8mm

WEIGHT: 0.40g

This item is guaranteed authentic and dates to the period described. A written guarantee can be provided on request. We accept returns if you are not satisfied with your purchase.

I am a fully qualified Archaeologist and small finds specialist. All items can be viewed in person on request at Grays, Mayfair in London. Please see my website for details.