A beautiful Byzantine electrum ring, featuring a circular hoop, composed of two separated wires, and a finely decorated trumpet bezel. The bezel is set with a flat cabochon garnet stone, framed by a fine band of granules. Four oval beads, further enriched with granules, support the bezel. Following the trends set by the Romans, Byzantine jewellery became a continuation of Roman jewellery traditions. As in many other cultures throughout Antiquity, Byzantine jewellery acted not only as an embellishment, but most importantly as a direct display of someone’s wealth and social status. Measurements: W 2cm x H 3.1cm Internal diameter: 1.8cm Closest UK ring size: P Weight: 5.1g Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.