DATE: Intaglio: Roman, 1st Century AD - Ring: Georgian, c.1750

An exceptional antique signet ring, home to a Roman era intaglio panel carved with the head Emperor Caesar Augustus. The detail to the carving is really quite amazing, the Emperor is crowned with a laurel leaf with a bow to the back of his head.

The agate panel has been mounted in an 18k gold signet ring that dates from the mid 18th Century, circa 1750. It's remarkable that such pieces can survive for the best part of 2000 years, and shows how important they must have been to the numerous owners over the years.

Augustus controlled Imperial Rome for 40 years following the death or his adoptive father Julius Caeser, who was murdered by members of the Senate. Augustus founded the Roman Principate, essentially establishing Imperial Rome, and due to his remarkable aptitude in all areas of administration and management, tact, and leadership, he ushered in the longest era of peace and prosperity that Western Europe has ever enjoyed - known as the Pax Romana.

STONES 

Agate

MEASUREMENTS 

Head: 11.1 x 9.1mm

Width of band: 1.4mm

WEIGHT 

2.2g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 18k gold

CONDITION 

Good, some general wear commensurate with age and use