Georgian Carved Garnet Fede Ring
RESERVED Unusual Georgian cameo ring set with a Renaissance period (c.1640!) carved garnet fede cameo. Named after an Italian phrase, Mani in Fede, or 'hands clasped in trust', Fede Rings have been associated with marriage and fidelity since Roman times ('dextrarum iunctio'). Also known as 'hand in hand' rings, they regained popularity in the 16th century, representing the handclasp which formed part of the marriage service - an intimate bond or connection between lovers - and were exchanged as betrothal rings well into the Georgian era when this example was mounted into a gold ring. The red garnet symbolised passion, further reinforcing the romantic sentiment.
Examples like this one, with a carved gemstone handclasp cameo, are incredibly rare. A very similar carved garnet fede can be seen in the V&A's collection, set into a mid 17th century cluster ring, and the British Museum holds a carved glass fede cameo ring dating from the 18th century. This cameo is Italian and was carved around 1640, it's mounted in an English ring (15 carat gold) with a milled bezel setting, reeded band, and fine bifurcated shoulders - all very typically Georgian, circa 1800. The foil backing gives the stone an etherial glow as light reflects back out through it.
Era: Ring is Georgian, circa 1800. Stone is older, circa 1640
Ring size: O or 7.25 US. Resizeable for £35
Head size: 13.8mm by 9.2mm
Stone: Garnet (variety almandine-pyrope)
Marks: None, tested as 15ct gold
Condition: Good antique condition, appears all original. Light wear consistent with age
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
£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
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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