Roman Erotic Intaglio Ring
An incredibly rare ancient Roman erotic intaglio depicting two lovers in the throws of passion. The intaglio is carved in a mossy green jasper hardstone which dates from the 1st century AD, and it's set in a 19th century ring mount made in the Roman style (Henig type XII or similar). And the ring... whomever made this really put in the work and must have been intimately familiar with Roman archaeological pieces. The profile of the band, the bezel setting, and the matte-textured finish are congruent with true antiquities, and the gold is very high carat (approx. 88% gold, 11% silver, and a small amount of copper).
Archaeological excavations in Italy and Egypt, during the 18th and 19th centuries, sparked a fascination with the classical world, and inspired generations of English aristocrats to embark on the Grand Tour of Europe. Jewellers were equally awed by the intricate and technical goldsmithing of their ancient counterparts, and began to rediscover ancient techniques such as granulation and filigree. The archaeological revival movement, led by the likes of Tommaso Saulini and the Castellani family, sought to produce replicas of actual ancient pieces that were as close as possible to the real things.
Era: Intaglio is Roman, 1st century BC to 1st century AD; Ring is 19th century
Ring size: O 1/2 or 7.5 US. Resizeable for £55
Head: 13.3mm by 17.4mm
Stone: Jasper
Marks: None, tests as high carat gold - around 21-22ct
Condition: Good antique condition; light wear consistent with age.
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
UPS Express shipping is free of charge on international orders over £300 and it's carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
US Shipments
US Shipments
US Customs now charges a 10% tariff on all UK shipments as they cross the border. We will pay this customs charge on your behalf. Import duties remain 0% on antiques.
[Last updated: 28th February 2026]
Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
25% deposit taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff or scrape is quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 3-6 weeks to shipping times Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
*the shopping cart, not checkout