Victorian Black Enamel Mourning Ring
Striking antique mourning ring dating from the mid 19th century, circa 1860. Set with four lustrous white pearls and five diamonds, the rich 18 carat gold is finished with fine seams of black enamel to the head and shoulders. Although its creator clearly designed it as a memorial/mourning piece, the inscription inside the band suggests its realised purpose was likely something different... the engraved words: From Jan to Filo(?)... indicate with was exchanged between two (presumably) living people... perhaps with a penchant for the macabre, or did they just like the black-on-gold aesthetic? We'll never know.
Era: Mid-Victorian, circa 1860
Head: 11.3mm by 11.1mm
Ring size: J 1/2 or 5 US. Resizable for £35
Stones: Natural pearls and old/rose cut diamonds
Marks: None, tested as 18ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition, wear and minor losses to the enamel. One pearl a possible replacement
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