An outstanding Victorian sterling silver buckle ring, hallmarked in Birmingham in 1880, discovered resting inside its original retailer’s box from Pleasance & Harper of Bristol, exactly as it has been left for well over a century.
There is something undeniably special about this piece. Preserved within its box, it carries the quiet romance of a ring that may have been given with intention, then carefully put away and forgotten—its story paused in time until now.
The buckle motif held deep meaning in the Victorian era, symbolising loyalty, devotion, and an unbreakable bond. It is no coincidence that these rings were often chosen as tokens of love, commitment, and even wedding bands.
This example stands apart for its remarkable state of preservation. The edges remain crisp and sharply defined, the corners still square, and the surface shows virtually no softening. The hallmarks are beautifully clear and deeply struck—so fresh they immediately signal just how little the ring has been worn.
With its wide, substantial profile and clean, confident lines, it wears effortlessly today—striking, meaningful, and entirely timeless.
A rare and evocative piece—perfect as a wedding band, commitment ring, or a deeply symbolic gift.
THE DETAILS:
METAL: sterling silver
HALLMARKS: 'lion passant' for sterling, sideways 'anchor' for Birmingham, date letter italic "f" for 1880. Additionally stamped with a makers mark 'J.A' possibly James Fenton or Joseph Addis
MEASUREMENTS: 7.3mm wide
RING SIZE: Size V-1/2 UK, 10-3/4 USA
WEIGHT: 4.8 grams
DATE: Victorian dated 1880
CONDITION: In outstanding antique condition. The ring displays exceptionally crisp detailing with sharp edges and minimal signs of wear. The hallmarks are clear and deeply struck. The original retailer’s box is constructed from card and shows age-related wear, including foxing and staining consistent with its age. It has, however, preserved the ring beautifully over time.
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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 shipping on 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.
* 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.
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Materials: Sterling Silver.