Exquisite Khmer Empire Gold and Crystal Ring Fetches Over HK$138,000 at Auction

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An extraordinary piece of ancient metalwork from the height of the Khmer Empire made headlines in the art and antiquities world after being sold at auction for 138,600 Hong Kong Dollars (approximately $17,682 USD).

The rare artifact—an Angkorian gold ring set with a tumbled crystal in a 'four-pointed star' bezel—offers a breathtaking glimpse into the craftsmanship, aesthetics, and sacred metallurgy of medieval Cambodia.

Mastercraft of the Angkorian Goldsmiths

During the Angkor period (9th to 15th centuries CE), Khmer goldsmithing reached an unparalleled level of sophistication. Jewelry was not merely decorative; it was a profound symbol of divine status, spiritual protection, and elite social standing worn by royalty, high officials, and temple dancers.

This particular ring showcases two defining elements of ancient Khmer craftsmanship:

  1. Intricate Gold Workmanship: The ring's band and setting display delicate, hand-wrought gold detailing characteristic of high-status Angkorian jewelry. Gold was considered a pure, sacred metal closely tied to royal power and Hindu-Buddhist devotions.

  2. Tumbled Crystal & Star Setting: Centered in a distinctive 'four-pointed star' bezel, the clear, tumbled rock crystal highlights the artisan’s skill in combining precious metals with natural stones. In ancient Khmer cosmology, clear quartz and rock crystals were frequently associated with spiritual purity, clarity, and cosmic energy.

A Growing Appreciation for Khmer Jewelry

While Angkorian stone sculptures and bronze figures have long dominated international auctions and museum collections, ancient Khmer gold jewelry has seen a significant surge in interest among scholars, collectors, and historians in recent years.

The realization price of HK$138,600 reflects both the rarity of intact Angkorian personal ornaments and the increasing global appreciation for Southeast Asian antiquity.

As more historical pieces come to light and are documented, artifacts like this exquisite gold and crystal star ring continue to broaden our understanding of daily life, regal fashion, and sacred art during the glory days of the Khmer Empire.

Artifact Details

  • Period: Khmer Empire (Angkor Period)

  • Materials: Pure Gold, and Tumbled rock crystal

  • Design: Four-pointed star bezel setting

  • Auction Date: March 28, 2021

  • Realized Price: HK$ 138,600 (~$17,682 USD)




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