ABSTRACT
The aim of this paper is to combine information available from historical texts with archaeological material in order to draw conclusions or raise questions on the use of rings by women of lower social circles. The study is also based on the partially-published private collection of Fl. Evangelatou-Notara. Dating clues are often derived from the accompanying finds in excavations, whereas some are dated relatively, mainly through their decorative pattern or a certain type. As for the gender, a comparison of the size of the band has led to the conclusion that often a significant difference in diameter cannot determine the sex of the owner. Rings of questionably smaller diameter are also included in the study, assuming that they belonged to women, most likely engagement rings of brides in childhood or adolescence. To a greater extent, these rings of non-precious metals (copper, bronze, iron) must have been prefabricated and sold at local festivals. Some bear at the bezel a name or an adjective, or use the inscription LORD HELP THE BEARER (…ΤΗ ΦΟΡΟΥΣΗ).
