Viking Silver Ring with Stone (Glass) Size 5, Excellent Wearable Condition c. 10th. offers C. Kievan Rus

Authentic Viking silver ring with glass stone around 10th.C. A.D. in partially cleaned excavated condition. This is a size 5. The condition is exceptional and extremely strong, and has been conserved and no breaks or significant corrosion. Vikings were fascinated by ring shaped jewelry. Men and women wore them on their fingers, wrists, forearms, upper arms, and even around their necks (known as torcs/torques). Some rings were simple circlets. Others were ornate works of art. They were made of iron, silver, copper, bronze, or gold, according to the means of the wearer. This display of wealth served to reinforce the value of the individual in the Viking's honor culture and served as a form of wearable currency. Rings were not just about wealth and display. Rings also served as a symbol of oaths and promises. While some see eternity offers in the circular ring shape, perhaps the Vikings saw it as a symbol of reciprocity and commitment. Finger rings are common features in Viking burials and treasure hordes. Some of these rings were fantastic works of art. Others were elegant in their simplicity. Those made of common metals served for ornamentation or as keepsakes for their owners. Those made of iron may have served to ward off trolls and other malevolent spirits (as iron is shunned by evil in most northern European belief systems). Rings of silver and gold were portable wealth and wearable currency and could be worth a fortune. Rings boasted of the value of the wearer. They were also a constant reminder of obligation and oaths taken or rewarded. This ring can be worn without concern, and the metal is not fragile. When I receive this type of material that has only received a cursory cleaning I prefer to leave it in the condition in which it was received. I will be happy to provide simple cleaning instructions; but it is such an important piece of history I leave that to you. Like all my antiquities this ring comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and lifetime money back guarantee, so buy with confidence!!