Hadrian Signet Ring – Grey Tahitian Mother of Pearl Cameo - Adjustable

Details

Subject: Hadrian, Roman emperor
Technique: Cameo carved by hand in relief
Material: Natural grey Tahitian mother-of-pearl
Cameo shape and size: Oval, approximately 14 × 12 mm
Setting: Solid 925 sterling silver or solid bronze
Band: Open and adjustable
Production time: Approximately one week
Origin: Handcrafted in Italy

Hadrian, from Bust to Cameo

The portrait on this ring takes its inspiration from a marble bust of Emperor Hadrian. From the sculpture, we borrowed the turn of his head to the right, the curls over his forehead, his short beard and the cloak draped over his shoulders. In translating the portrait from marble to mother-of-pearl, we focused on the features that make Hadrian recognisable even in an oval measuring just 14 × 12 mm.

Roman emperor from AD 117 to 138, Hadrian travelled extensively throughout the provinces. He took a deep interest in Greek culture and architecture. Hadrian’s Villa at Tivoli remains one of the most striking expressions of those interests.

The Mother-of-Pearl

We chose grey Tahitian mother-of-pearl for this cameo. Silver, green and pink reflections play across its grey surface. As you move your hand, the light shifts from Hadrian’s cheek to his carved curls, bringing a different detail of the portrait into focus each time.

Each piece of mother-of-pearl has its own markings and iridescence, so the colours of your ring may vary slightly from those shown in the photographs.

The Cameo

We carve the portrait in relief, cutting away the background around the bust so that the figure stands above the surface. Fine grooves define individual locks of hair and the curls of the beard, while the broader planes of the forehead and cheekbone reveal the natural colour of the mother-of-pearl.

The Ring

The cameo sits in a signet ring with clean lines and a slender rim that follows the curve of the oval. Choose the bright finish of 925 sterling silver or the warm tone of bronze.

The open, adjustable band can be gently adjusted to fit your finger. It also makes the ring a thoughtful gift when you are unsure of the recipient’s exact size. We make each ring individually to order in approximately one week.

A Portrait to Carry with You

One quality in particular drew us to Hadrian: his desire to see for himself the places he governed. For those who love to travel, his portrait can serve as a quiet reminder of that curiosity, even after the journey home.

How Can We Help?

If you would like a closer look at the carving and the way the mother-of-pearl changes colour in the light, we would be happy to send you a short video of your cameo before shipping.

You are also welcome to get in touch for advice on sizing or to design a bespoke piece with us, choosing your own subject, stone and setting.

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From the Archive

In antiquity, a carved gem could hold an emperor’s portrait small enough to wear on a finger. Our Hadrian cameo continues this tradition of glyptic art, the carving of miniature images in gemstones and other precious materials.

Discover the history of glyptic art →