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. The hair has been treated with 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 near perfect condition for its age showing only minimal wear and no noted flaws. Note any dark spots/lines are reflections
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free worldwide tracked & insured shipping for all purchases.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* Discount - find special discount and no added tax on our website at www.mercymadge.com
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
Materials: 9ct Gold.