Ancient Khmer Sapphire Ring

A rare ancient Khmer gold ring dating to the height of the Cambodian Khmer Empire, circa 8th–11th century. The ring is set with a natural pale cornflower-blue sapphire, approximately 1.3cts, polished into an irregular pebble form as was customary in early Southeast Asian jewellery. The sapphire is secured in a clawed setting with four distinctive triangular claws, a defining feature of Khmer rings from this period (see final photo for similar examples). 

The ring is crafted in high-karat gold, testing at approximately 21K, with a substantial solid hoop and a raised bezel decorated with fine beaded wirework running fully around the setting. The wide oval hoop form, measuring approximately 19 × 16mm internally, may reference water buffalo horn symbolism, a recurring motif in Khmer material culture. Despite its oval form, it would comfortably fit a UK size J½; US size 5.

Jewellery of this type was produced during the golden age of the Khmer Empire, one of the wealthiest and most sophisticated civilisations of the medieval world. Khmer goldsmiths worked with locally sourced gold and gemstones, favouring organic forms and robust construction rather than faceted precision. Rings such as this were worn as symbols of status, protection, and spiritual significance, often associated with royal, religious, or elite contexts.

• Weight: 6.82 grams

• Ring size: approx UK J½; US 5

Remarkably well preserved for its age, this ring remains highly wearable and represents a rare survival of early Khmer gold jewellery - a museum-level object equally suited to a serious ancient jewellery collection or as a singular statement ring with profound historical depth.