The top of the ring presents an oval shaped rock crystal, cabochon, revealing the interior compartment, likely intended for holding a relic or protective amulet, to a chased with foliage surrounding shoulders, mounted in gold.
As a typical design of the 17th century reliquaries and devotional jewels made in southern Europe (especially Italy), the center element of the ring normally holds a relic beneath a rock crystal than it can be inserted or removed upon the desire of the wearer.
Back in the 17th century, devotional jewelry was an essential daily jewelry wear for most Italian women.


Period: circa 1690
Finger size: 9.5
Weight: 1.69gr