Ancient Roman jasper engraved 'RUFUS' ring. Set centrally with an oval jasper plaque engraved with the word 'РOΥΦOC' (Ancient Greek for 'Rufus') in a closed back rubover setting, flanked by broad scooping shoulders and leading down to a solid D-shape tapering shank. Tested yellow gold, approximately 10.05 grams in weight, circa 3rd century AD, accompanied by an Oxford Labs X-Ray fluorescence analysis report stating the composition of the metal.
See Ruseva-Slokoska, L., 'Roman Jewellery', Sofia, 1991, item 182 for a similarly shaped ring with engraved inscription.
'Rufus' was a popular Ancient Roman name which meant 'red-haired' in Latin.
