c. 700 AD. Viking Age. Gold ring comprising a circular hoop with ribbed shoulders and a double plate bezel. The bezel plates, which are slightly convex and oval in form, are each decorated with a raised central rib flanked by two rows of stamped dots; each rib ends in trumpet-shaped terminal. This beautiful item would probably once have adorned the hand of a Viking noble. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Expertly cleaned and conserved. Excellent condition; wearable; Size: D: 19.22mm / US: 9 1/4 / UK: S1/4; 7.5g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.