Medieval turquoise bishop's stirrup ring. Set to center with a round turquoise cabochon in a closed back rubover setting, to stirrup ring design which flows through to a slightly tapering flat shank. Tested yellow gold, approximately 3.5g in weight, European, circa 14th century.

The Nishapur region of Persia (currently Iran) and the Sinai Peninsula (Egypt) were the two major historical sources of turquoise. The Sinai mines were largely depleted in ancient times, so it is likely that this turquoise is of Persian origin, brought back to Europe during the crusades.

Bishop's rings were a particular style of ring found in Medieval England and France. The form of the ring echoes the shape of a horse's stirrup, from where it gets its name, but is also reminiscent of the gothic vaulted ceilings found in cathedrals - particularly apt when considering that these rings were often worn by bishops.

The turquoise is slightly chipped, but the ring remains in fine condition commensurate with its age. It would require some care when being worn.

This ring was found near Winchester in 1987.