Μεσαιωνική, εποχή σταυροφόρων Ασημί Δαχτυλίδι με Αστέρι της Βηθλεέμ

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Medieval Crusaders Era, silver ring. The large circular raised bezel is decorated with a 5-pointed Star of Bethlehem with 5 engraved petals. A star in lozenge shape on both sides and bottom of the ring band.

Outside diameter: ± 24 mm
Inside diameter: ± 20,1 - 20,5 mm
Bezel diameter: ± 19,3 mm

Condition: good solid and wearable condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. See images.
Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format).

STAR OF BETHLEHEM
Many Christians believe the star was a miraculous sign and it was often claimed that a star fulfilled a prophecy (Star Prophecy). According to the Bible, a bright astronomical object led the Magi from the East to the birthplace of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. During the centuries the Star of Bethlehem was not consistently shown with five rays. Sometimes it is portrayed as a tailed comet, as a diamond-shaped star, or other variations with 6, 8 or 14 rays.

Before the cross, the five-pointed star was a preferred emblem to adorn jewellery and amulets of early Christians and was also associated with the five wounds of Christ.

In the 13th century a military monastic order, known as the Bethlehemites, wore a five-pointed star on the left breast. In the 14th century the order became known as the Knights of the Star of Bethlehem and spread to various parts of Europe in the 14th and 15th century.

MATERIAL
This object has been carefully examined with regard to its material composition and surface characteristics.

Specialised laboratory analysis such as metallurgical testing (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting and is more commonly associated with academic or institutional research.

Destructive testing methods (such as acid testing) permanently damage the object’s surface and are not appropriate for archaeological material.

Historically, modern hallmarking systems did not exist. The alloy composition of gold and silver could vary depending on local resources, trade networks, recycling practices and prevailing economic conditions.