the antique victorian 1863 enamel and hairwork floral mourning ring

A beautifully detailed mourning ring, circa the mid-Victorian era, has everything a collector could want in an antique mourning ring. At the centre of the head is a rectangular panel, holding locks of lovingly woven blond hair, intricately braided together and protected over the years underneath a clear, domed top. The clear top is a rub-over set to secure it, surrounded by a textured, rounded rectangular border that is engraved with floral, rosebud-like detailing.
The hairwork panel is framed by detailed enamel work in a deep midnight black with a shiny finish. Around the head curve, the words 'IN MEMORY OF ' are punctuated by a small, squat cross and bordered by a rich yellow gold daisy-shaped border, the edges of the head forming 8 petal-like curves. Holding the head are swirling shoulders, complete with more enamel work and scrolling detailing, foliate and dainty despite the solemn nature of the piece. This scrolled patterned enamel and engraving follows the band round; a masterpiece from any angle this ring is viewed.
Inside the heavily detailed band is a clear and bold hallmark for 18ct gold. The leopard's head of the Assay Office of London sits proudly next to the date letter 'h' in a gothic script. This indicates that the ring was hallmarked in 1863/1864. There is light enamel loss to this ring after years of being worn in memoriam of a loved one, though this is barely noticable. Who the hair enclosed in this ring belongs to, we do not know. There is no named engraving, so who this ring commemorates shall remain a mystery.

Antiques.co.uk Ref: Y89N2J4GY

Please note that this price may NOT include delivery charges which the seller may charge extra for.

Buy now with paypal

Make an Offer

Antiquejewellers.com

antiquejewellers.com is a established and growing online retailer with a wide selection of antique and vintage rings. Ensure the moment is perfect with a antique ring as special as they are. Hard to find and rich in history, antique & vintage engagement rings and wedding rings. Everyone who wants to get married should be able to get married Standout Jewellery The rings we sell aren't modern mass-production rings, each ring is special and individually sourced with care. 100% Satisfaction If the ring you choose isn't right for you or your partner we will happily help you return it for a full refund. We even offer free resizing. In It For The Love We're a family business, and we started it because we know how wonderful and unique an antique piece of antique jewellery can be to give and receive.

Contact details