Ancient Rome

Roman ring

 

The materials used to make this ring are gold and bloodstone. The most common type of signet ring during this period had a motif engraved onto a gemstone. On the left, the ring depicts Hermes, and on the right the figure of Mars. Most male fingerrings had a specific function. These were signet rings used as a form of royal mark by higher-ranking officials. It was easy to identify the status of an individual who was wearing a specific ring. The engraved gem would be pressed into wax, impressing the shape of the image carved into its surface. Rings were worn as a mark of your identity and status.