Jewellery, Watches, Silver and Objects of Vertu

A Medieval late 13th century gold and sapphire stirrup ring, the hoop of D-shaped cross section, the raised triangular-shaped bezel between angled shoulders, inset with the original heart-shaped cabochon sapphire at the apex, diameter 32mm. £2,000-£3,000

This ring was found by a metal detectorist at Woodham Walter, Essex in 2019. It has been recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database Ref: ESS-B604F3 and disclaimed as Treasure.


The village of Woodham Walter is close to All Saints church, Ulting which dates from circa 1150. In 1299 Robert Fitzwalter, Lord of the Manor of Ulting, gave the church to the Abbey at Beeleigh. Robert was knighted in 1274 and was summoned to military service in Scotland and Gascony in France.

Although referred to as ’stirrup rings’, a name given in the 19th century comparing their shape to a horse’s stirrup, this form of medieval ring actually reflects the pointed arch used in the monumental architecture of the Medieval Gothic period. The simple examples imitate the ogee arches utilised in the Gothic cathedrals, exemplified by the cheviot of St. Denis, evolving into more complex designs as time went on.