Victorian 10kt & Sardonyx Egyptian Intaglio Signet Ring

The opposite of a cameo, an intaglio is created by carving below the surface to produce an image in relief, with the purpose of pressing into sealing wax. A signet ring can be represented with an intaglio or by a simple smooth seal. Its purpose would have been to sign and seal the wax of a letter or note.

An incredible intaglio signet ring from the Victorian (ca1880) era! This wonderful ring is made of 10kt yellow gold and features an oval sardonyx stone bezel set at the center. The sardonyx displays a carved intaglio image, which shows the portrait head of an Egyptian figure shown in profile. The carved detail is very intricate, including a decorative Egyptian headpiece, individual facial features, and traditional makeup reminiscent of "Cleopatra" eyeliner. The sardonyx has a bold, dark color that almost looks black, but reveals a rich, deep red hue when held to the light. Surrounding the sardonyx stone is an attractive carved gold design that extends to a smooth band. Stamped inside the shank is "10K." A very special intaglio ring, it would look wonderful worn by a woman or man and would make an incredible addition to any Victorian collection!

Measurements: The ring has a large finger size 8 but could easily be resized. The front of the ring (including the gold setting) measures 5/8" tall and 3/4" wide. The sardonyx intaglio itself is 1/2" tall and 3/8" wide.

Condition: The overall condition of the ring is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold setting or carved sardonyx intaglio, which is intact and secure.