Vintage Heraldic Intaglio Ring
An excellent, larger scale sardonyx signet ring carved with a nicolo intaglio depicting a full heraldic achievement including: shield with charge, helmet, mantling, torse, and crest. The coat of arms displays black, carved through the cushion-shaped stones's lighter blue surface band. It's mounted in 14 carat gold and dates from the 1960s, or thereabouts.
Heraldry remains, unfortunately, a realm of mystery and elitism, although it features prominently in the world around us (in Europe, certainly). Heraldic emblems can be seen on bus stops, rubbish bins, opera houses, ketchup tubes, school gates, castles, ashtrays, etc etc. But what is heraldry? Let's take Charles Mackinnon's definition from The Observer's Book of Heraldry (1966): "Heraldry is a system of identifying individuals by means of hereditary devices placed upon a shield, which system originated in Western Europe in medieval times".
This heraldic achievement comprises a shield with three annulets over a black (sable) ground, it's topped by a closed visor helmet in profile (indicating the Esquire) with slashed mantling (that's the ribbon stuff billowing out around the shield. It's supposed to represent a slashed and tattered knight's cloak after he's been away at war.) and a winged crest above.
Could we identify the individual who bore these arms, with time and the correct resources? Absolutely. Do I have half a day to spare with three small children and a young business to run? Well, don't let me spoil your hunt.
Era: Vintage, circa 1960
Ring size: V 1/2 or 10.75 US. Resizeable for £55
Head: 19.4mm by 17.1mm
Stone: Blue Sardonyx Hardstone
Marks: Stamped 585 for 14 carat gold
Condition: Great vintage condition
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
US Shipments
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[Last updated: 28th February 2026]
Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
25% deposit taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff or scrape is quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 3-6 weeks to shipping times Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
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