14th-15th century AD. A gold D-section hoop with flared shoulders, elliptical bezel with scrolled tendrils and median lozenge, remains of white enamel, inset amethyst cabochon. Cf. Oman, C.C. Victoria and Albert Museum Catalogue of Rings, reprinted Ipswich, 1993, item 260; Taylor, G. & Scarisbrick, D. Finger Rings from Ancient Egypt to the Present Day, Oxford, 1978, type 47. 5.31 grams, 27mm overall, 19.41mm internal diameter (approximate size British S 1/2, USA 9 1/2, Europe 20.98, Japan 20) (1"). Property of a London gentleman; acquired in the 1980s. In the medieval period it was commonly believed that amethysts had the ability to detect poison by becoming dim in colour. They were also associated with the clergy being used in Episcopal rings which gave rise to them being known as Bishop's stones.

Very fine condition. A large wearable size.