Winged Messenger : Antique Carnelian Intaglio of Mercury in 9ct Rose Gold Ring

Sold

A classically elegant ring featuring a deep red carnelian with a detailed hand carved intaglio of the Ancient Roman God Mercury (or Hermes) set into a 9ct rose gold ring. Mercury or Hermes was the messenger of the Gods, known for speed and swiftness – he can be recognised by his winged helmet. In ancient mythology he is said to have carried correspondence between the mortal and immortal planes, and acted as mediator between these worlds. He is said to be the god of commerce, communication, eloquence and travel. Known for his pranks he is also considered to be the god of tricksters and thieves. He was also the Ancient Roman psychopomp, assisting the deceased in reaching the afterlife. You could call Mercury a pretty great all-rounder – definitely a key member of your team.

Manufacture:
The carnelian has been hand carved with great skill – the intaglio makes a beautifully detailed impression in wax as well as being most appealing as a gemstone. It has been rub-over set into a rectangular bezel. The shoulders of the ring are gently flared and decorated with a stylised arrow fletching motif. The ring is made of 9ct rose gold and bears a full set of English hallmarks for Chester 1911, with makers mark S.U Ltd – unfortunately I have not been able to find any information on this firm.

While many ancient intaglio stones were set into rings during the 19th Century and into the 20th Century, I believe this intaglio to be of the same era as the ring and made in the early 20th Century.

The carnelian measures 12.2mm x 8.2mm.
The face of the ring measures 14 x 9.8mm
The back of the band is 2.5mm wide and 1.1mm thick, flaring at the shoulders to 3.4mm wide and 2.4mm thick.
Weighs 2.8 grams

Size M1/2 or 6.5
Resizable within reason, but please do be mindful of the hallmarks.

Condition:
In outstanding antique condition with no faults to note. The hardstone bears no chips or scratches or indeed much sign of wear at all. The ring shows no signs of repair or resize. It has been left with the aged patina, but can be polished to a high shine upon request.

Ready for immediate and everyday wear.

Description

A classically elegant ring featuring a deep red carnelian with a detailed hand carved intaglio of the Ancient Roman God Mercury (or Hermes) set into a 9ct rose gold ring. The ring bears a full set of English hallmarks for Chester 1911.

The carnelian measures 12.2mm x 8.2mm.
The face of the ring measures 14 x 9.8mm
The back of the band is 2.5mm wide and 1.1mm thick, flaring at the shoulders to 3.4mm wide and 2.4mm thick.
Weighs 2.8 grams

Size M1/2 or 6.5
Resizable within reason, but please do be mindful of the hallmarks.