Recently Sold (VR748)

The Key Of Life - Vintage 10K Gold 'Ankh' Cross Gentleman's Ring. This symbolic ring is crafted from 10K gold, hallmarked 10k. Featuring wonderful detail, and quality craftsmanship. This ring is made in the form of a signet, which is textured and features a beautiful polished 'Ankh' cross. The shoulders of the ring have a more dramatic textured effect , which gives the ring a contrasting and interesting matt and polished finish. The shank is polished and smooth, which allows for easy sizing, and a comfortable fit. This vintage ring displays an 'ancient cross' with an interesting history. Truly a meaningful jewelry item, and a great conversation piece!

History: The ankh symbol—sometimes referred to as the 'key of life' or the 'key of the nile' — is representative of eternal life in Ancient Egypt. Created by Africans long ago, the ankh is said to be the first--or original--cross.

While ankh necklaces and other jewelry were used in rituals, there wasn't necessarily a particular person or station of person who was meant to wear an ankh. Today, as is often the case, any symbol can be worn by anyone, and people all over the world decide to wear the ankh symbol.

The Ankh has long-since been revered as a powerful bringer of wealth and good-fortune. As far back as the time of the Ancient Egyptians, it was known to be a powerful occult tool--one used in magickal ceremonies, healing practices and secret initiations.

The Coptic church of Egypt inherited the ankh as a form of the Christian cross, symbolizing eternal life through Christ . While other vestiges of the old religion slipped away, the ankh took on a new role while retaining its old meaning of life and the promise of eternal life.

As a symbol, the Ankh points to divine, eternal existence. It is referred to as the “Key of Life" and is the inspiration behind the fragrance Love, The Key To Life. The Ankh is a derivative of the traditional cross. It combines the circle and the cross and is sometimes called the “cross with a handle". 

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 18.00 mm x 15.00 mm 

Weight: 9.10 grams 

Ring Size: 8 3/4 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1980