Medieval garnet tart mold ring

A high carat gold ring, circa 1300, set with a domed cabochon garnet. It is the tart mold form, also known as a “pie-dish” or “moule à tarte” which  refers to this specific style of finger ring popular in Western Europe from the 12th to the 14th centuries. At this time rings were not only symbols of wealth and power but also held symbolic meanings. In 1198 Pope Innocent III sent to Richard Coeur de Lion four gold rings, each set with a different gem. In the accompanying letter the Pope wrote that the stones were symbolic, the warm colour of the garnet symbolising how we should love. Moreover the form of the ring also possessed a symbolic meaning, its roundness denoting eternity. This ring is size P [US 7 and 1/2]. There is a tiny ding on the side at two o’clock where the ring would have been hit by a shovel or pick during excavation. This only adds to its charm. The ring is in fine and most wearable condition some 700 years after it was made.

sold
Item ref : SC2