Bearing good clear hallmarks for Chester in 1900 this antique Victorian mourning band ring is a statement in beauty and femininity. A quality piece it is crafted in sturdy gauge warm old yellow gold and features a charming heart motif at the front flanked by floral engraved epaulettes that run around the shoulders.
A circle of deep brown braided hair is set into a channel that runs around the back of the band. The dark hair provides a striking contrast to the gleaming lustre of the gold and since it is positioned towards the back of the ring it is only really visible to the wearer. Although today we associate rings featuring hair-work with Georgian and Victorian mourning jewellery many of these pieces were exchanged between sweethearts and worn as intimate tokens of love.
Steeped in sentiment and fabulous for wear as a unique signature ring it would also make the perfect gift for the lover or collector of sentimental and mourning jewellery. Hairwork in antique rings has a protective coating of shellac to ensure long lasting durability, which is evidenced by a 125 year-old age! It is also worth mentioning that Chester assay office closed its doors permanently 60 years ago so gold bearing these historical hallmarks are particularly desirable!
A fabulous and hard to find Victorian mourning ring, especially in this remarkable all original condition, she is bound to bring joy to her new owner!
DETAILS:
METAL: 9ct gold
HALLMARKS: '375-9' for 9ct gold, 'wheat-sheaves & sword' for Chester, date letter 'R' for 1900 and makers 'WGM'
MEASUREMENTS: ring size UK Q, USA 8-1/4 (cannot be resized). The band is 4.8mm wide with the gold "front piece" measuring 5/8"/2cm across
WEIGHT: 2.1 grams
DATE: Victorian, dated 1900
CONDITION: in excellent antique condition with no noted flaws. Note any dark spots are reflections