Square Emerald Ring. Shipwreck: Atocha 1622. Recovered in 1986. Estimate $45,000 – $65,000. Photo Guernsey's.

With its emerald hailing from the famous Muzo mine in Colombia, a ring such as this was a sign of affluence. The number and variety of rings that can be seen from this era painted in portaits or even listed on a ship's manifest emphasized the Spaniard's passion for accentuating the hands and visibily displaying one's level of wealth. Whereas modern gemstone rings are set with open backs to reflect light and enhance the appearance of a stone, here a closed back was utilized and does not in any way detract from the natural beauty of this precious gem. This beautiful 22K gold ring was recovered from the Nuestra Senora de Atocha in 1986 and gifted to Taffi Fisher, Mel Fisher's only daughter. The ring features a vibrant square- cut natural emerald in a bezel setting, weighing approximately 2 carats.  

Guernsey's. The Mel & Deo Fisher Collection - August 5