The top, centre and bottom rings shown in pic 1 are chalcedony while the two rings on the left and right are probably nephrite.
Except for the centre ring which is flat, all the rings have tapering sides. All the rings are undecorated and are well crafted, polished and beautiful in their plainess. Filippo Salviati writing in the Language of Adornment, said that such rings have been used in pectoral and necklace assemblages during the Zhou dynasty 1046-256 BC.
The pieces shown here, (if not fakes) are likely to date from Warring States period 475-221BC, or later.
The 5 Rings shown in pic 2 are all flat and the top 4 rings are also unpolished. I have been toying with the idea that these may be unworked pieces recovered from some ancient ring-making factory.There are toolmarks on the surfaces of all the rings.
The bottom one which is the only one polished is also more like a bi.
I think they are of the same vintage as the rings shown in Pic 1.
The bottom one which is the only one polished is also more like a bi.
I think they are of the same vintage as the rings shown in Pic 1.
Pic 2
pic 3
Pic 3 shows a jade ring with twisted rope design which is typical of the Warring States Period 475-221BC. This ring was also discussed in a previous post http://baiyu-quietmuse.blogspot.com/2008/10/groovy-huan-ring.html . The jade has completely altered and the stone is covered with lovely patina.
