William Jones presents a vast compendium on the history, lore, and symbolism of finger-rings across ancient and medieval civilizations. The author traces the evolution of rings from the earliest periods in Egypt, Assyria, Etruria, Greece, and Rome, examining their dual purpose as practical signets of authority and ornamental displays of status. The volume details how rings functioned as legal instruments for conveying property, ratifying decrees, and sealing documents, as well as their vital role in coronation ceremonies and ecclesiastical investitures.
A central focus of the work is the rich tapestry of folklore and superstition surrounding rings. Jones explores ancient divinatory practices, including dactylomancy and crystallomancy, along with the widespread belief in talismans, amulets, and zodiacal rings designed to avert the evil eye or cure specific ailments. Particular attention is devoted to the legendary properties of magical rings in romance and history, from the ring of Gyges to the miraculous recovery of lost rings inside fish.
The narrative also delves into the complex traditions of betrothal and wedding bands, mourning and memorial rings, posy rings with cryptic inscriptions, and the distinctive merchant marks used by traders. Moving through Anglo-Saxon, Celtic, and European medieval history, the text catalogs the specific materials, settings, and gems prized during different epochs. The study concludes with an extensive examination of ecclesiastical rings worn by popes, cardinals, bishops, and abbots as symbols of their spiritual marriage to the Church.
