Gold and carnelian, 3.12 grams, 21.61 mm; internal 18.07 x 17.48 mm [UK size P, US size 7 3/4, Europe size 16]. 3rd-4th century AD. The ring has a plain shank and decorated shoulders consisting of a rectangle, circle and D-shape in succession from the central elliptical bezel which contains a carnelian intaglio. The shank is formed in two parts, skilfully joined at the lower point; the joint is detectable on the inner surface only. The symbol on the intaglio’s face is a bar with clubbed ends, from behind which emerge thin strokes in imitation of the chiaro oscuro effect; this arrangement was used in imperial Roman times to represent Jupiter’s thunderbolt. The form of seal-ring with bevelled shoulders was adopted in the Roman Empire in the 3rd century AD. Reference: Higgins, R.A. Greek & Roman Jewellery, London, 1961, p.190 & pl.62E. Good very fine condition. This item is accompanied by an XRF ancient metal test certificate from Oxford X-ray Fluorescence Ltd.