Medieval cabochon sapphire ring. Centrally set with an oval cabochon natural unenhanced sapphire in a closed back rubover setting with an approximate weight of 1.50 carats, to a raised oval collet with polished borders and champfered edge, flanked by rounded trumpeting shoulders which gently curve to a slim shank. Tested yellow gold, approximately 3.5g in weight, circa 13th-14th century, accompanied by an Oxford Labs X-ray fluorescence report stating the composition of the metal.
Sapphires were a favourite choice in the Middle Ages, though so rare that they were reserved solely for royalty, upper nobility and certain high ranking clergymen. Sapphires were thought to be imbued with magical powers such as protecting the wearer from the effects of poison, preserving chastity, keeping the peace and curing snake bites.
