Rare Antique Indian 'Mirror' Ring

This extraordinary antique 'mirror' ring, also known as an arsi ring, hails from 18th-century South India during the Mughal dynasty. Worn by women in the royal courts of India, these rings held a small mirror at their centre, enabling the wearer to discreetly check their reflection. Tradition also suggests that brides wore these rings on their thumbs, using the mirror to catch a glimpse of their groom from beneath their veils.

Crafted in high-karat gold (approximately 23-24K) using the traditional kundan setting technique, this piece features a heart-shaped motif - a design rooted in Indian culture and thought to have originated during the Indus Valley Civilisation, inspired by the sacred "peepal" tree leaves. Unlike the more common circular examples, this is a rare heart-shaped form.

The ring is set with nine cabochon-cut rubies encircling the central mirror, complemented by an additional twelve rubies along the band and a single emerald at the top of the heart. Together, the gemstones weigh over 2 carats. The mirror itself, measuring 1 cm in diameter, is likely composed of silver foil beneath a layer of rock crystal.

This unique ring weighs 8.62 grams and is particularly small, with a size of UK C½ (US 1.75). It may have originally been intended as a mid-finger ring or for someone with slender fingers.

In remarkably good condition for its age, this piece remains fully wearable. Its rarity, coupled with its historical and cultural significance, makes it an exceptional collector's item or a meaningful addition to any jewellery collection.