Medieval garnet ring

A 13th century Gothic ring set with a cabochon garnet, embodying the tart mold style popular in Medieval Europe. The high carat gold shank which is cross-hatch engraved supports the original garnet in an irregular tart mold setting following the natural contours of the stone. Medieval lapidaries index the abilities of gems to cure ailments, ward off sickness, or even bring prosperity, love, or victory. Garnets were believed to promote good health and ward off demons and were often worn for protection from the Black Death. This ring is size P [US 7 and 1/2] and is in very fine and wearable condition. There are similar tart mold rings in most major museum collections.

sold

similar irregular tart molds in Scarisbrick’s Historic Rings below