Georgian Forget-Me-Not Micro Cameo Ring
That blue and bright-eyed flow'ret of the brook,
Hope's gentle gem, the sweet forget-me-not.
- Coleridge
Utterly charming Georgian ring set with three gemstones: two emeralds and an onyx "micro cameo" carved to depict a forget-me-not flower, white over black. The stones rest in raised settings with granulated gold accents over a textured background with a fine, contoured border. The split shoulders display intricate engraved embellishment with hints of rococo styling. It dates from the 1820s, crafted in rich 18 carat yellow gold.
"Floriography", or the Language of Flowers, was a secret code developed in the 18th and 19th centuries that attached meaning to various flowers and plants. The forget-me-not, as presented here, bore a simple and uncomplicated message of love. When combined with a lock of hair, an an absent lover, the flower would serve as love's reminder.
The forget-me-not takes its name from a tragic German folk tale set on the banks of the Danube. A young couple on the eve of their wedding day are taking a walk on the river bank when the bride spots a cluster of small blue flowers by the water. Her gallant fiancé reaches down to pick them for her but, losing his footing, he's swept away by the turbulent waters. With his last breath he managed to utter the words, "Vergiss mein nicht!" as the threw the flowers at the feet of his beloved. The anglicisation is generally attributed to Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who spent time in Germany and would almost certainly have become familiar with the tale.
Era: Georgian, circa 1820
Ring size: P or 7.75 US. Resizeable for £35
Head size: 8.4mm by 10.9mm
Stones: Onyx & Emerald
Marks: None, tested as 18ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition
Full appraisal document provided with each item
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
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 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
A 25% deposit will be 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, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are 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.
More Questions?
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alex@lostowl.jewelry
An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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