Recently Sold (PGR090)

Kashmir Skies - Medieval 16th - 17th Century Sapphire Glass Niello Ring.  This fantastic ring is crafted from bronze.  Featuring an oval faceted sapphire glass gem, medieval styling and quality bronze work.  This ring boasts a beautiful Kashmir intense blue gemstone. The gem is bezel set with a delicate patterned gallery, which still displays traces of Niello. The shoulders also show traces of Niello, leading down to a smooth band, which allows for a comfortable fit.  The Medieval era ring makes a statement when worn, a rare beauty to be enjoyed and treasured for many years to come. 

Note: Niello (from Latin: Nigellus = “blackened”) is a metallic alloy with sulfur which is used as a surface decoration technique which, much like enamel, is fused to a metal base. The luster of niello, however, is metallic instead of vitreous and it is much tougher than enamel. Niello comes in just one color – black of various tones – which contrasts highly with silver, the most popular base for niello work. Through the use of engraving, etching, chiseling or embossing techniques, an indentation is made in the work and filled with the black sulfide alloy. The methods used in niello are similar to émail champlevé and émail de taille d’epargné’, although most other enameling techniques can be used as well. Due to these similarities, niello is sometimes misnamed black enamel.

Measurements: Face of the ring 19.00 mm x 14.00 mm 

Stone Size:  Sapphire Glass 16.00 mm x 11.00 mm 

Weight: 6.20 grams 

Ring Size: 8 3/4 

Condition: Excellent  Note: Wonderful traces of Niello.   Artifacts are luxury items. They can be worn with care.  To clean gently wipe with a damp cloth (water only) Do not immerse in any liquid. Pat dry immediately with dry soft cloth. 

Origin: Europe    Provenance: Poland 

Date: 16th - 17th Century