Lost Owl Frog Signet Ring
Custom engraved signet ring by Lost Owl. Designed after Matsumoto Hoji's 1814 woodblock print of a frog, one of a series published in the Meika Gafu. The ring dates from the mid-19th century, with octagonal head and English hallmarks for 18ct gold - year: 1853.
Frogs have been represented for centuries in a variety of cultures as unique symbols, playing important roles in myth, folklore, fairytales, drawings, paintings, and sculptures. In Japan, the frog, (kaeru), is symbolic of fertility and good fortune, and as the word in Japanese means "to return”, frogs can be linked with things/or people returning to their place of origin. They are lucky to keep around, for frogs promise good fortune and friends, (which will at some point come back) so are carried by travelers to make sure they return safely from their journeys. In Japan, they are also given as thoughtful gifts, Omiyage, (a small lucky amulet/toggle type gift), to a friend who is going into a hospital for surgery and thus wishing them a successful return. (source: mingeiarts.com)
Era: Victorian, 1853
Head size: 10.1mm
Ring size: V or 10.5 US. Resizable for £35
Hallmarks: English, Birmingham, 18ct gold, 1853
Condition: Great antique condition, 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)
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?
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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
Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
*shopping cart, not the checkout