Antique bloodstone signet ring, mounted in 22ct gold (tested). Early to mid 19th century, Georgian or very early Victorian period. The bloodstone has the Gothic lettering initials W & B carved into it (in reverse, so when applied to wax, it reads the correct way). Bloodstone is a very dark green with tiny red flecks, hence the name. Very small ring fitting, so possibly a married woman's signet ring, for sealing letters to their dearest friends. Possibly a sweetheart or marriage gift from her husband.The shoulders of the ring have scroll decoration. However, 22ct gold is very soft, and the ring has smoothed somewhat. There is a cut mark at the rear of the finger, possibly the original join in this handmade ring. Or maybe a later sizing mark. Although quite sound, the band has deformed a little here, and could do with a dob of gold to strengthen it. Face of ring measures 10 mm by 8 mm (3/8 inch by 5/16 inch). Ring fitting is English size J (USA size 4.3/4) with an internal diameter of 15.5 mm. (Pinky finger size). Wear is commensurate with age, somewhere around 150-170 years old.

Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Antique Jewelry