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A mid 19th-century French horseshoe ring, made in Paris circa 1840 and crafted in 18K gold.The ring is centred with a raised horseshoe-form bezel, flanked by finely chased foliate garland shoulders that taper elegantly into a slender shank. The modelling is crisp and restrained, characteristic of Parisian goldwork of the early Victorian period.The horseshoe motif has a long-established place in European jewellery as a symbol of protection and good fortune. In early 19th-century France, such motifs were worn deliberately as personal talismans rather than decorative novelties, often associated with safe travel, prosperity, and warding against misfortune. Rings of this date with horseshoe bezels are notably scarcer than later Victorian examples.The ring bears the French eagle’s head hallmark for 18K gold, along with a maker’s mark consistent with Parisian manufacture.Measurements and condition:The horseshoe bezel measures 12 × 10mm; the band measures 3mm at the back. Ring size UK R; US 8.5. Weight 2.91 grams. Very good antique condition, with a small dent to the underside of the bezel not visible when worn, and light surface wear consistent with age.A rare and elegant early French talismanic ring, valued for its age, symbolism, and refined foliate goldwork.
A mid 19th-century French horseshoe ring, made in Paris circa 1840 and crafted in 18K gold.
The ring is centred with a raised horseshoe-form bezel, flanked by finely chased foliate garland shoulders that taper elegantly into a slender shank. The modelling is crisp and restrained, characteristic of Parisian goldwork of the early Victorian period.
The horseshoe motif has a long-established place in European jewellery as a symbol of protection and good fortune. In early 19th-century France, such motifs were worn deliberately as personal talismans rather than decorative novelties, often associated with safe travel, prosperity, and warding against misfortune. Rings of this date with horseshoe bezels are notably scarcer than later Victorian examples.
The ring bears the French eagle’s head hallmark for 18K gold, along with a maker’s mark consistent with Parisian manufacture.
Measurements and condition:
The horseshoe bezel measures 12 × 10mm; the band measures 3mm at the back. Ring size UK R; US 8.5. Weight 2.91 grams. Very good antique condition, with a small dent to the underside of the bezel not visible when worn, and light surface wear consistent with age.
A rare and elegant early French talismanic ring, valued for its age, symbolism, and refined foliate goldwork.
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