A fine Byzantine Gold Pearl Ring, Late Byzantine Period, ca. 6th century CE

This exquisite high-karat gold ring features three fine, luminous pearls. Each pearl is secured by a gold pin and arranged separately in a delicate openwork bezel, forming an elegant triangular shape with a small loop at one end. This arrangement of pearls is reminiscent of the traditional Greco-Roman grape cluster motif.   

In ancient times, pearls were rare and difficult to obtain, making them highly valued as adornments. Byzantium imported pearls from the distant coasts of India, the Persian Gulf, and the Red Sea. It was thought that these exquisite gems were formed when lightning struck an oyster shell, with remnants of the lightning infused into the pearl, serving as the source of its luminosity.  This belief enhanced both their value and the perception of their power.  Indeed, Emperor Justinian even enacted a law within the Codex Justinianus that restricted the use of pearls, sapphires, and emeralds exclusively for imperial purposes. However, this restriction did not seem to apply to jewelry worn by women.

Medium: Gold, pearls

Dimensions: US ring size: 6 1/4 (UK: M)

Condition: Professionally cleaned, the ring is in excellent condition.

Provenance: Henry Anavian, Sumer Gallery of Ancient Art, NYC, acquired 1970s - 1980s and then by descent to family.