Victorian 9ct Gold Signet Ring With A Bloodstone Intaglio Of Hermes

An unusual 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) gold ring set with an oval bloodstoneA dark green to dark bluish-green variety of Chalcedony that is splattered with red or brown spots that resemble blood. The extent of the marking varies depending on the stone. Spots are favoured over larger stripes and markings. with a well carved intaglioAn engraved stone, the opposite of a cameo, with a recessed design cut below the surface of the stone. Intaglio designs are common for signet rings and fob seals. of Hermes, the messenger God. Hermes is considered a god of transitions and boundaries. He is described as quick and cunning, moving freely between the worlds of the mortal and divine. He is also portrayed as an emissary and messenger of the gods, an intercessor between mortals and the divine, and conductor of souls into the afterlife. He has been viewed as the protector and patron of herdsmen, thieves, oratory and wit, literature and poetry, athletics and sports, invention and trade, roads, boundaries and travellers. So, an interesting ring to wear!