A very impressive Islamic Ottoman/Bedouin silver-metal ring. It presents a raised bezel with a hexagonal red hardstone intaglio showing an insect, possibly a bee, in flight. Incised circles enrich the background. The intaglio decoration served as a stamp or a seal, illustrating a protective symbol or the heraldry of the owner. The raised bezel is richly decorated on all sides with geometric patterns and the ring band is decorated with protruding details on the shoulders and incised curvilinear patterns. Good solid condition, wearable. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Fascination with jewellery grew with the expansion of the Ottoman Empire and the plundering of precious gems from newly conquered land. Jewellery created with precious and semi-precious stones indicated one’s position and power, and was popular with the sultans. Gemstones were valued not just for beauty but for their association with specific powers, particularly healing, and promotion of success. Measurements: H 2.8cm x W 2.3cm Inside diameter: 1.9cm Closest UK ring size: R Provenance: Purchased by the current owner in 2021. Prior English collection of Mr. A.H.D.