3rd century AD. A discoid carnelian cloison bearing an intaglio profile bust of Gordian III (238-244 AD) with diadem and mantle, inscription to rim 'PONTI PP IIII'; set into a degraded iron finger ring. See Ruseva-Slokoska, L. Roman Jewellery, Sofia, 1991, item 274 for type. 17 grams, 40mm overall, 18.31mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16) (1 1/2"). Ex Debbie Lee collection; previously the property of her father for over 50 years. In Roman times iron rings were worn by important people as they were very difficult and thus expensive to manufacture.