A thirteenth century gold stirrup ring,

yellow gold set with a cabochon blue sapphire,

British,
circa 1250.

Diameter: 22mm
Height 27mm

Found by a metal detectorist on 23rd August 2008 in a field in the Parish of West Rainton,
North East of the city of Durham. Treasure report T480.

The term 'Stirrup' is a misnomer used by nineteenth century antiquarians to describe the shape of this type of ring.
It has recently been observed that the form of such rings mimics those of medieval and particularly Norman
architecture. The ring following the shape of a Norman stone arch. The sapphire is from Ceylon as this was the sole
source for the stones in this period. The earliest stirrup rings were worn by Bishops and one dating from the first
half of the twelfth century was found in the grave of Bishop Rufus (d.1140) in the chapter
house of Durham Cathedral.

Two similar thirteenth century stirrup rings in the British museum are illustrated in
British Rings, 800-1914, Oman, C Charles (London, 1974), 15 B & C

A photograph of the ring, as it was discovered in West Rainton .

West Rainton.