A carved cameo onyx in a cut-edge rectangular shape is held within a bezel setting within the head of this ring, bearing a positive cameo relief of a centurion soldier’s side profile portrait, in stark white against a black background, thanks to the banded internal layers of onyx. The onyx is sturdily held in the bezel setting, with a simple 9k gold shank.
Materials and Features:
- Carved banded onyx (portrait cameo portrays the side profile visage of what appears to be a Roman centurion soldier in a helmet)
- 9k yellow gold
Age/Origin: Indeterminate
Weight: 2.36 g
Marks: CYBS 9CT [incised, inner shank face]
Size: 6.75 US
Dimensions:
- 12.4 x 10.3 mm ring face
- 1.7 mm band width
- 1.1 mm band thickness
Condition: The carved cameo has some chipped areas on the relief, most notably on the centurion’s nose, and possibly on his left shoulder. Otherwise, the onyx itself is good, with a stark contrast between the white and black shades. The onyx is sturdily held within the bezel, which bears an open back. There is quite a bit of tarnishing and solder discoloration on the sides of the ring head, especially where the shoulders meet the ring head. It is possible that this ring is a conversion piece. The shank itself bears a smooth circular shape, with no distortion, making for a comfortable fit.