Roman, Imperial, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. A splendid pair of gold rings. The first ring is comprised of a single band that was hammered and shaped into the form of a double-headed serpent with incised lines on the head and parts of the tail to indicate scales. The ring is widest at each of its diamond-shaped heads then tapers to the body which wraps three times around the wearer's finger. Also formed from a single band of gold, the second ring boasts a mandorla-shaped inlaid garnet showcasing a vibrant shade of crimson. The gorgeous piece of jewelry presents a raised horizontal midrib around its band and is thickest around the inlaid garnet then narrows towards the opposite side. A dazzling set of rings perfect for casual and formal attire! Gold quality: first: 97% (equivalent of more than 23 karats), second: 84% (equivalent of more than 20 karats); Size of largest: 0.75" W (1.9 cm); American ring size: first: 6.5; second: 3.5; Weight: 4.2 grams

The serpent, with its ability to change its skin, symbolized rebirth, fertility, and immortality in the Greco-Roman world. Frequently present in mythologic scenes, snakes were also linked to many deities, such as Apollo - god of healing, medicine, archery, music and poetry; Asclepius (also Asklepios) - god of medicine; and Demeter - goddess of the harvest as well as sacred law and the cycle of life and death. This ring may have served as an apotropaic ornament for their wearer, similar to Gorgoneion (heads of women with hair of snakes) amulets.

Provenance: ex-private Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, USA collection

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#162613

Light softening of detail on first ring and some indentations to body and garnet of second ring. A few stable hairline fissures on side opposite the garnet of second ring. Otherwise, both are intact and excellent.