Victorian Gold Memorial Mourning Ring

Details

Description

A lovely Victorian Gold Memorial Mourning Ring Designed with a Central Natural Pearl Cross set in Onyx Enamel

Freshwater Pearl.

… Read more A lovely Victorian Gold Memorial Mourning Ring Designed with a Central Natural Pearl Cross set in Onyx Enamel

Freshwater Pearl.

The unusual and interesting ring was acquired in London post WWII by a previous owner. Memorial and mourning rings to remember a loved one who had passed on were prized throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and are highly collectible today.

The gold band features a pair of cut out panel sides with minutely small niches inside. These are to fill with usually finely plaited strands of hair from the one who passed away. On this ring they are empty and free for the buyer to use in a personal way. Perhaps a cat whisker?

Engravings on the gold band include small forget-me-not flowers, adding to the romantic symbolism of this already so emotionally charged piece.

These rings were often of 18 carat gold but this one has not been tested.

It weighs approximately 3 grammes.

No makers' marks or inscriptions are visible on the inside, likely due to many years of wear perhaps by a lady who was widowed young.

The inside diameter is approx 1.9 cm See less