Lot 80
MEDIEVAL GOLD AND SAPHIRRE RING
WESTERN EUROPE, LIKELY ENGLAND, C. LATE 14TH - 15TH CENTURY
Auction: 26 November 2026 from 14:00 GMT
Description
solid gold ring engraved with vegetal pattern on shoulders, centrally claw set pale blue cabochon sapphire with lengthwise drilled perforations suggesting an original use as a bead
Dimensions
UK: T US: 9¾
Provenance
Acquired by Stanley J. Seeger (1930–2011);
Thence by descent.
Footnote
It was believed in the Middle Ages that gemstones held amuletic powers. Sapphire's blue colour was seen as reminiscent of the sky, and in turn heaven, making the prayers of the wearer head more favourably by God. Thus, sapphires were a popular stone for rings worn by prominent clergymen. According to the Liber Lapidum of Marbodus of Rennes, written in the 3rd quarter of the 11th century to explain the properties and uses of gemstones, it was also believed that sapphires had protective and medicative effects which could alleviate headaches and eye strain, as well as curing stammers.