French Country · Encyclopedia · Jewelry and Accessories
Intaglio
Engraved gemstones set in rings or seals.
Jewelry · Indicative US retail $100–$5,000
At a glance
- Family: Jewelry
- Periods most often found: Most on the market date from 1750 to 1900.
- Typical price: about $600; range $100 to $5,000 and more for exceptional pieces
- What drives value: Carving, stone
What it is
An intaglio is a gemstone or glass paste engraved in reverse, so that pressed into wax it leaves a raised image. Ancient Roman intaglios, Renaissance and 18th-century neoclassical gems, and 19th-century Grand Tour intaglios in carnelian, agate and bloodstone were set in signet rings, watch fobs and seals.
How to identify and date it
Carving quality, depth and subject (classical heads, gods, coats of arms) determine value; hardstone is cold, hard and shows polished, rounded cuts; glass pastes (Tassie) are molded and may show bubbles. Check gold mounts for hallmarks.
Carving and stone.
Periods and styles
Most on the market date from 1750 to 1900.
How much is it worth?
On the US retail market, most intaglio examples ask around $600. Simple or worn pieces start near $100, while documented, signed or exceptional examples can pass $5,000. The main value drivers are: carving, stone. These are indicative ranges, not an appraisal; see our price guide for French antiques for the method.
Before you buy
- Check the stone
- Inspect carving under a loupe
- Read hallmarks
Living with it
An intaglio ring or fob seal is a wearable piece of history.
How we write these guides: identification notes are general guidance written by French Country; a style name, a region or a resemblance does not by itself date or attribute a piece. Price ranges are indicative US retail asking prices for antique and vintage examples in sound condition (dealers, specialist marketplaces and auctions), estimated and rounded as of November 2026; check recent sold results before relying on a figure. They are not appraisals or offers to buy or sell: condition, provenance and documentation can move a value far outside the range. For insurance, estates or sales, ask an independent, qualified appraiser for a written valuation.