Probably South German, mid to late 16th century

Overall the condition of the ring is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. Small elements of the decoration around the bezel may originally have been enamelled. The edges of the setting of the paste are a little jagged and there is a small scratch or fissure on one of the longer sides of the setting. There are a number of minor scratches, including to the sides of the bezel and to the inside of the hoop.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The scrollwork decoration adorning the bezel of this charming ring is near-identical to that found on another ring which was sold at Sotheby's New York on 25 November 1986, lot 143, there catalogued as probably South German, third quarter of the 16th century. Note the same ram's horn type motifs flanking the short sides of the stone. Compare also with the late 16th-century ring published by Scarisbrick (op. cit., no. 158).

RELATED LITERATURE
D. Scarisbrick, Historic Rings. Four Thousand Years of Craftsmanship, Tokyo, New York and London, 2004, p. 67, no. 158