Georgian Engraved Ouroboros Ring
A Georgian ouroboros ring with diamond eyes and superb engraved detailing all around. The snake has something of a cartoonish face (remember that the jeweller who made this ring most likely had never seen a snake IRL) and is merrily consuming its own tail. Wonderfully intricate scale engraving, it's crafted in 15ct gold and dates from the early 19th century, circa 1800.
The ouroboros (literally "tail devourer") is an ancient symbol depicting a serpent (or sometimes dragon) forming a circular shape and eating its own tail. It crops up in many cultures across many civilisations, and has meant different things to different Peoples:
Infinity and wholeness, the circular shape representing eternity, continuity, and the cyclical nature of life. The unity of opposites: creation and destruction, beginning and end, life and death.
Self-reflection and introspection, encouraging us to look inwards to reflect on our beliefs, our actions, and ultimately our selves.
Rebirth and renewal through transformation and growth.
Alchemy and spirituality, the ouroboros often being associated with alchemic practices. It can be seen to represent the union of opposing forces and the attainment of something "greater than its parts" - be that gold or some other valuable material, or a mode of higher consciousness or spiritual enlightenment.
Era: Georgian circa 1800
Ring size: 7.75 US or P UK/AUS. Resizing possible but the pattern may be disturbed - get in touch to discuss
Width at head: 6mm
Stones: Rose cut diamonds
Marks: None, tested as 15ct 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)
Buying a Gift?
Leave a note at checkout and we'll include a handwritten note to the recipient. Just tell us what you'd like to say
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?
Get in touch... There's a live chat at the bottom right of each page.
alex@lostowl.jewelry