gems, ancient gemology, ancient jewelry, Medieval sapphire ring, Sri Lanka, Ceylon

This article presents an archaeometric study of a medieval corundum ring discovered at Pustý hrad (Deserted Castle) above Zvolen in Central Slovakia, shedding light on the gemstone’s origin, use, and craftsmanship. The ring, dating to around 1300, is an 18-karat gold piece set with a rare reddish-purple sapphire estimated at approximately 2.00 carats—an exceptional find in the context of medieval jewellery. Identified as corundum through standard gemological methods, Raman and absorption spectroscopy, and microscopic inspection, the stone showed no evidence of heat treatment. EDXRF analysis of trace elements (Ti, V, Cr, Fe, Ga) points to Sri Lanka as the probable source. The ring’s origin and quality underscore the sophistication of medieval trade networks and the symbolic value of such objects, which were not merely ornamental but also conveyed wealth, status, and spiritual protection. The engraved animal motifs on the ring’s shoulders reflect the influence of medieval iconography, illustrating the broader cultural and symbolic dimensions of gem-set jewellery in the High Middle Ages.