A very impressive Ottoman Empire silver metal ring. It has a raised frame with a square green hardstone print depicting a scorpion. The intaglio decoration served as a stamp or seal, illustrating a protective symbol or the owner's heraldry. The raised frame is richly decorated on all sides with geometric patterns and curvilinear forms. Good solid condition, portable. Signs of wear are consistent with age and use.The fascination with jewelry grew with the expansion of the Ottoman Empire and the looting of precious gems from newly conquered lands. Jewelry created with precious and semi-precious stones indicated one's position and power and was popular among the sultans. Gemstones were valued not only for beauty but for their connection to specific powers, especially healing and promoting success.Inner diameter: 1.9 cmNearest UK ring size: QProvenance: Purchased by current owner in 2021. Former English collection of Mr. AHD

Very good