Antique Unisex George III mourning ring. 15ct gold, rose cut diamonds and enamel. Made in England late 18th century (circa 1780's). Unisex - can be worn by a man or a woman.
Measurements:
US size 8.25. Bezel is 17mm long. Weight is 7.3 grams.
Description :
The amphora or urn was a symbol of mourning since Classic Greek times. On the occasion of the death of a loved one, rings with this symbol were worn. A plain, wide gold band leads to raised wirework twisting and looping snake-like on the shoulders. The bezel is a gold oval border with funerary urn in the center. The finial, bowl and base of the urn are all picked out and set in rose cut diamonds set in silver colletts, typical of the Georgian era. The urn is placed against a background of blue enamel. The wearer must have been very wealthy to have afforded the rich diamond bezel. The shade of blue enamel hints at half mourning as opposed to deep mourning, which would demand a black or much darker ground.
The back has space for a locket, currently not in use. It would most probably have contained a locket of hair of the loved departed.
Marks:
No hallmarks, as is to be expected of Georgian rings. Gold was acid tested to ensure metal purity. There are some engraved marks on the back - very worn and quite illegible today. They may have provided the name and dates of the person who died.
Condition:
Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
