Vintage Tibetan or Nepalese Turquoise Saddle Ring, 10 Grams

This is a vintage (as hallmarked .925) Tibetan or Nepalese Silver Saddle Ring. Although of recent construction, most probably from around the 1950's, this particular piece has been modelled upon originals dating back centuries.

The central stone is a natural true blue turquoise with a lovely calico pattern. The pattern is the highlight however it is mostly silver colored iron pyrite and turquoise with a little black matrix patterns which gives it that third color giving it the actual calico pattern. This turquoise is rated highly.

The ring shanks are decorated with high relief repousse images of the monster mask of Kirtimukha. Saddle rings are a distinctly Himalayan design that has been prominent in Tibet for centuries. These rings are representations of the actual saddle used with horses. They are worn traditionally on the finger or as a hair ornament by both female and male.

The ring has a lovely soft silver patina that high silver content (sterling) jewellery achieves after decades of wear. There is silver tarnish and I have cleaned slightly.

Ring: Large Size - Men's Ring
Diameter: 21 mm, US Size 11 1/2, UK-AU Size W 1/2
Turquoise Stone: 2 cm (6/8") x 1.2cm (4/8")
Length: 2.8 cm (1")
Weight: 10 Grams (0.355 oz.)