A scarce early Javanese gold and ruby ring dating from the 7th-15th century Indonesian Classical period. 

As expected with Javanese gem-set gold rings made in this period, the present ring is crafted high-karat gold and set with a polished cabochon. The ring has a circular bezel, holding a ruby of approximately 0.7cts. The ruby is of a pinkish red colour and features natural inclusions throughout. The protuberant, stirrup-shaped shoulders of the ring are designed to mimic the shape of water buffalo horns, a typical characteristic of Javanese rings. 

One of the largest and most important islands in the Indonesian archipelago, Java has long been a great centre of art and civilisation. Gold finger rings are the most common form of jewellery found on ancient Java. Inventories of gold artefacts found in archaeological excavations reinforce the notion that rings were ubiquitous during this period. Not only was gold jewellery a significant symbol of wealth, status and power - but it was also used a currency in itself and functioned as standardised payment for numerous goods and services like salaries, fines and wedding banquets. In ancient Java, rings were also believed to have magical properties; predominantly the ability to bring good fortune and protection to the wearer. In fact, the literal meaning of the word ‘ring’ in Old Javanese translates to ‘guardian against enemy’.

Although corundum (sapphires and rubies) is not local to Java, they are often found on ancient Javanese rings and would have originally come from Sri Lanka, Myanmar or Central Asia. The stones on ancient gem-encrusted Javanese rings were not only chosen for their beauty and value, but also for their supposed astrological, magical and medicinal powers.

UK ring size J, US size 4.75

7.13g of high karat gold (19K/20K gold) 

Despite its impressive age, the ring is in wearable condition. The stone is securely set; however under loupe magnification there is a small chip to one of the corners of the ruby. 

Stone measures 7mm x 6mm. Band measures 2mm across at the back, and about 10mm at the front. Stone tested as corundum (ruby).