Ca. 500-600 AD.A group of three gold fittings consisting of (from left) an oval clip button with an inset of a gold cell with a beaded rim surrounding a stunning garnet cabochon. This clip features two attachment holes to the back. Other pieces in this group are a roundish fitting with a carnelian cabochon framed with a twisted border and a drop-shaped attachment fitted with carnelian as well. At the time of the fall of the Roman Empire, other cultures began to evolve, grow and eventually prosper and their culture and art thrived. The Merovingians (476-750 AD) were one such group and they are traditionally reckoned as the "first race” of the kings of France.Size: L:9-12 mm / W:11-20 mm ; 4.64gProvenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1980s.