A French 18K Gold Ring with Agate Cameo & Rose-Cut Diamonds – Empress Faustina the Elder

An exquisite example of French high jewellery, this magnificent ring presents a finely carved agate cameo depicting Empress Faustina the Elder (circa 100–140 AD), wife of Emperor Antoninus Pius and one of the most celebrated figures of the Roman Imperial era.

The Empress is portrayed in profile facing right, her bust elegantly draped, displaying the elaborate coiffure characteristic of her official portraits—waves of hair drawn back and coiled into an intricate chignon. The masterful carving exploits the natural layering of the agate, with the luminous white figure emerging from the warm brown background.

The oval bezel is gloriously framed by a halo of 26 rose-cut diamonds, their soft, antique sparkle perfectly complementing the classical subject. The 18-karat gold shank features refined openwork shoulders with scrolling volute patterns, bifurcating elegantly toward the base. The French eagle hallmark attests to its prestigious origin.

A rare jewel uniting Roman iconography, Baroque craftsmanship, and French goldsmithing excellence.