6th C. Byzantine / Frankish Gold Basket Ring w/ Rubies

Central Europe, Byzantine / Frankish, Migration Period, ca. 6th to 7th century CE. A stunning electrum basket style ring, pendant or earring inlaid with rubies around a green glass cabochon. Electrum is a precious gold & silver alloy; this ring is composed of a high 64.73% gold (equivalent to 15K+) with 30% silver. The ring has a hallow conical form, molded sheets with filigree wires coiled around the surface and raised form fitting bezel lips for the rubies 8 and glass cabochon. The band is made from woven wires and held in place via a pin that inserts through the terminal end of the band - which suggests this was a clasp like a earring rather than a finger ring. Electrum was highly advantageous for artisans to use; this alloy enabled the creation of various intricate designs and shapes while retaining both durable and malleable properties of both metals. Size: 1.4" L x 0.95" W (3.6 cm x 2.4 cm); gold quality: 64.73% (equivalent to 15K+); silver quality: 30%; weight: 13.1 grams

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA

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#184486
Condition Report: Tiny indentations to the gold and small tear to gold sheet. Rubies have some chips and abrasions. Light mineral deposits within the filigree wires. Overall excellent!