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LOT 0335
Medieval Gold Ring Brooch with Garnets
13TH-14TH CENTURY A.D.
3/4 in. (1.74 grams, 18 mm).
An annular brooch set with decorative oak leaves, tall collet at the top set with a garnet cabochon, dagger-shaped pin.
ProvenancePrivate collection, UK.
FootnotesIn medieval jewellery, garnets were highly prized for their deep red hue and believed mystical properties. Associated with protection, vitality, and divine love, garnets were thought to ward off illness, protect against injury, and illuminate the darkness—both literal and spiritual. Their rich colour made them a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice, and they frequently appeared in religious and funerary jewellery. Garnets were also connected to
concepts of faithfulness and truth, making them a popular choice in personal adornment and ecclesiastical pieces throughout the Middle Ages.
Oak trees were widely regarded as symbols of strength, stability, and endurance, owing to their longevity and robust nature. In jewellery, oak leaves could represent resilience, fortitude, and the ability to withstand adversity—virtues admired in both secular and religious life. Within Christian art and ornamentation, the oak also carried spiritual significance, evoking the Tree of Life and the strength of faith. It was often interpreted as a symbol of God’s protection, particularly in devotional objects or pieces with sacred motifs.
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'The Harrietsham' Medieval Gold and Gem Set Ring
Southern England, 1300-1400 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,105
Comprising a narrow shank and cup bezel with inset garnet cabochon; straightened. 1.37 grams, 22.77 mm overall, 17.26 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)
Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Harrietsham, Maidstone, Kent, UK, on 5th April 2024; declared as Treasure and susiquently disclaimed with Treasure Reference no.2024 T639. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.SUSS-EDF83D. Accompanied by a copy of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport's Treasure receipt dated 4th June 2024. Accompanied by a receipt, and disclaim letter, both from Mid Kent and Medway Coroner's Service.
The Portable Antiquities Scheme states: 'This is a find of note and has been designated: Include in MedArch.' -
Medieval Iron Tool Group
10th-13th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £14
Including a sturdy clout nail, an awl, a chisel blade, and other items. 227 grams total, 7.5-19 cm
Acquired prior to 2000. From a private Cambridgeshire, UK, collection. From the property of a late Lincolnshire, UK, gentleman. -
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Medieval Terracotta Jar
Circa 13th-15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £40
Biconvex in profile with low neck and rolled rim; old inked inscription to the sidewall with three signatures and '1920-1927'; feint pencilled inscription to base including the word 'Polish'. 1.11 kg, 16 cm
Believed to have been in the collection of George Adolphus Gray (c.1850), Captain of a merchant vessel and avid collector. Acquired by the present owner circa 15 years ago, reportedly recovered from a skip.
