Medieval ruby tart mold ring

A high carat gold ring, circa 1300, set with a cabochon ruby. 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. Medieval lapidaries, or collections of writings on precious stones, not only described the physical properties of gems, but also ascribed to them magical powers and intrinsic virtues. Often relying on Roman and Greek sources these lapidaries proclaimed that the ruby could promote health, dispel bad thoughts and serve as a defence against poison. 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.