Silver & Jasper "Concordia" Ring - Roman, c. 2nd Century AD

$0.00

Silver and Jasper “Concordia” Ring - Ancient Roman, c. 2nd Century AD   

An ancient Roman silver seal ring with an oval bezel and a wide elaborately decorated band. The bezel holds a carved red Jasper seal stone, incised with two clasped right hands – known as “dextrarum juncto.”

Rings with the clasped hands design denoted friendship or an engagement. As an unusual feature, this seal is also inscribed “OMONOIA”, Greek for harmony, or agreement of interests or feelings. Shown below for comparison is a silver Denarius of the Emperor Nerva (c. 96-98 AD) with the same motif and Concordia, the Latin equivalent of Omonoia, in the inscription.

Scarce and fine, in wearable condition with attractive age toning.  For other rings with this motif, see Ruseva-Slokoska catalog, “Roman Jewellery,” National Archaeological Museum – Sofia. For a similar example in gold, see Mills, “Celtic and Roman Artefacts,” R337.

Adornment in ancient Roman culture was always of great importance. Citizens would go to great lengths to acquire the latest fashion in clothing, hairstyles, and jewelry. Roman men, women, and children wore jewelry in abundance. It was viewed both as adornment and as visible evidence of wealth. Gold was the most desirable choice, with gemstones and silver also highly prized.

Diameter:  28 mm – 1 1/8”

Size: 7 1/2 

  • Inventory# PA-3503
Sold Out