Victorian Greek Key Mourning Ring
Gorgeous antique locket mourning ring dating from the mid Victorian period. An inscription inside the band illuminates some of its history:
In memory of Will'm Cole, died 25th Jan 1866 aged 78
The ring, crafted in rich 18 carat yellow gold, is finished with a Greek Key motif in black enamel that meanders around the central bevelled glass locket compartment. Further enamelling picks out a 'ribbon' that weaves around the shoulders and London hallmarks confirm the year it was made: 1865. It's an exquisite example of 19th century memorial jewellery, and brilliantly preserved.
William Cole lived through the turn of the 19th century. He married Elizabeth Faith and together they raised seven children: Ann, William, Mary, Elizabeth, James, Fanny, and John. Census records show that the family lived in Newton St Cyres in Devon (although Elizabeth was born in Cornwall) and list William's occupation as "Gardener" (like his father before him) at "St Thomas", likely referencing the famous Pinces Gardens in Exeter:
"Pinces Gardens, first known as ‘William Lucombe’s’, was the first established nursery in Exeter and is where the Lucombe Oak was discovered. In the 1820’s the gardens became known as ‘Lucombe, Pince & Co’ growing cinerarias, calceolarias, and later renowned for its glasshouses bursting with orchids and gardenias. In the 1880s, the wisteria was one of the main features of the nursery … a stunning sight still today!" [source]
Era: Victorian, 1865
Ring size: L 1/2 or 6 US. Resize for £55 (a couple sizes either way, get in touch to discuss sizing)
Head: 12.6mm by 10.5mm
Hallmarks: English, London, 18ct Gold, 1865 (partially struck). T.E maker's mark
Condition: Great antique condition with light patina
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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
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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
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 and 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.
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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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