An extraordinary 14th-century gold ring, featuring a raw diamond and a poignant inscription, is poised to captivate bidders at Woolley & Wallis. This piece offers a rare glimpse into the medieval expressions of affection through jewelry, predating the well-known Archduke Maximilian's diamond engagement ring by at least a hundred years. The ring's historical significance lies not only in its age but also in its unique use of diamonds, which at the time were cherished for their symbolic protective attributes rather than their dazzling brilliance.
Scheduled for sale on January 29, the item, cataloged as Lot 470 in the Fine Jewellery auction, is a gold stirrup ring embellished with a diamond. Its inscription, "IE SVI CI EN LIV D'AMI," translates to "I am here instead of a lover," highlighting its profound romantic context. The ring's design incorporates an uncut, natural octahedral diamond crystal, securely set within a smooth gold bezel. The estimated value of this historical artifact ranges from £6,000 to £8,000, approximately $8,000 to $11,000.
During the early 1300s, the era of the ring's creation, diamond-cutting techniques were yet to be developed, meaning the stones were not appreciated for their modern-day sparkle. Instead, they were revered for their believed ability to ward off sickness and poison. Such precious stones were typically reserved for items of royal regalia or significant ecclesiastical treasures, making their appearance in a personal love token exceptionally rare.
Marielle Whiting, a jewelry specialist at Woolley & Wallis, emphasized the ring's exceptional rarity. She noted that diamonds were scarcely utilized in jewelry during the early 14th century, let alone in an intimate item like a betrothal or love ring. The ring is also designed in the fede style, characterized by clasped hands, an ancient emblem of loyalty and betrothal, although these details are now quite worn.
The most moving aspect of the ring is the Lombardic script engraving within the shank, stating, "I am here instead of a lover." This inscription, combined with the ring's design, strongly suggests its purpose as an emotional stand-in for a distant beloved. Whiting described the piece as an early and sophisticated example of diamonds in personal adornment, bridging poetry and symbolism from the medieval era, and expected to draw considerable interest.
This remarkable piece of jewelry serves as a tangible link to the past, illustrating how deeply personal sentiments were once embedded in precious objects. Its survival through centuries allows for a unique insight into the emotional and material culture of the medieval period, particularly concerning expressions of love and commitment. The combination of its age, the early use of diamonds, and its heartfelt inscription makes it a truly unparalleled historical treasure.