Byzantine rings carry the faith and artistry of the Eastern Roman Empire. This guide explains what they are, their distinctive imagery, how to authenticate one, and what they cost.
Looking for the real thing? Browse authentic Byzantine rings, each piece one of one, individually authenticated, with documented provenance. For the background, see the guide to medieval jewelry.
What is a Byzantine ring?
Byzantine rings come from the Eastern Roman Empire, roughly the 5th to 15th centuries. They are typically silver or bronze, and frequently carry Christian imagery: crosses, saints, monograms, and Greek prayers. Openwork bezels and cross-pattee forms are characteristic.
Distinctive Byzantine features
- Cross and devotional imagery
- Greek inscriptions and monograms
- Openwork and lozenge-shaped bezels
- Marriage rings with paired portraits or crosses
How to authenticate a Byzantine ring
Look for stable ancient patina, period-correct construction, wear consistent with age, and imagery matching documented Byzantine typologies.
At Aurora Antiqua, every piece is examined before listing and backed by a Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee, with free insured EU shipping. You can read our full method in our guide on how we authenticate ancient and medieval rings.
What do Byzantine rings cost?
- Bronze: €150–350
- Silver with cross or inscription: €400–1,200
- Gold or rare pieces: higher
Browse authentic Byzantine rings
- Byzantine Silver Ring - 'Crucia' (7th–11th c. CE) EU 65 / US 11.25: €560.00
- Byzantine Silver Ring - 'Anna' (6th–8th c. CE) EU 60 / US 9.25: €850.00
- Byzantine Silver Ring 'Theofanis' (8th-12th c. CE) EU 57/US 8: €420.00
Frequently asked questions
What is a Byzantine ring?
A Byzantine ring is a finger ring from the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, roughly the 5th to 15th centuries, often in silver or bronze with Christian cross and devotional imagery or Greek inscriptions.
Are Byzantine rings Christian?
Many are. Cross motifs, saints, and prayers such as Kyrie Boethei (Lord, help) are common, reflecting the deeply Christian culture of Byzantium.
How much do Byzantine rings cost?
Bronze examples start around 150 to 350 EUR; silver rings with cross or inscription run 400 to 1,200 EUR or more.
Where can I buy an authentic Byzantine ring?
Aurora Antiqua offers authenticated Byzantine rings, each researched and backed by a written Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee with free insured EU shipping.
More from Aurora Antiqua
References
- Ring, Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, Trustees for Harvard University
- Necklace with Pendants, The Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio
- Pectoral crosses, Museum of Byzantine Culture Thessaloniki
- Protection in Life and Death: Pendant Crosses from the Cemetery of Apollo Klarios at Sagalassos, Cambridge University Press
- Octagonal Pendant, The Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio
- Earring, Victoria and Albert Museum, London
- The techniques of Byzantine gold jewelry, Paul and Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum, Athens