A rare antique ‘paste’ ring, probably made in France, circa 1800. A lovely example of Georgian period jewellery, this ring was crafted in 15K gold and displays excellent craftsmanship and an unusual design.

The oval bezel is set with a cluster of bright cobalt blue paste stones in an ‘X’ shape, surrounded by a sea of colourless pastes. It is probably designed as an hourglass, a popular motif in Georgian jewellery to represent ‘memento mori’, a Latin phrase meaning ‘remember death’. A rather stark reminder for the wearer to cherish each day and live life to the fullest because tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Paste jewellery is made from a special type of flint glass that was invented in France in the mid-18th century by Georges Frederic Strass and was used to imitate a number of gemstones. It was very popular in jewellery during the the Georgian and Victorian periods. Strass worked as a jeweller to the king when he moved from Strasbourg to Paris in 1724.

The stones are all in foil-backed and closed settings, a popular method of gem-setting in the Georgian era because it allowed the stones to glisten marvellously in candlelight. As expected with rings from this period, the bezel is slightly curved to align with the natural curvature of the finger for a comfortable wear.

This elegant ring remains in great wearable condition despite its significant age. As the stones are in foil-backed settings, you should limit exposure to water when wearing this jewel, as it might make the foil darken and cause the stones to appear dull.

UK size P 1/2, US size 8

The ring weighs 8.6 grams, it is unmarked but tests as 15K gold. The cluster head measures 30mm x 12mm

A golden age for jewellery design, boasting intricate designs inspired by nature and classical mythology. The style reflects the elegance and refinement of the 18th century with the use of diamonds, pastes and intricately worked Rococo settings.

Georgian jewellery is named after the four King Georges of England, an era which lasted from 1714 to 1837. Pieces of Georgian jewellery are handmade works of art, expertly crafted to be treasured for generations. They often used rose-cut and flat-cut stones with large facets that were often foiled to enhance their natural beauty. These pieces were reserved mainly for the aristocratic upper classes, with each piece individually crafted by a highly skilled hand.

DELIVERY

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RETURNS

We understand that purchasing antique jewellery online can be a daunting task, which is why we offer an easy, no-hassle returns policy. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply get in touch within 14 days of receipt for a full refund, no questions asked. We want our customers to feel confident when buying from us, and our returns policy is just one way we ensure this.

Conditions: Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. All items are to be returned in their original condition and packaging. Buyer damaged items and items bought on layaway are ineligible for returns. Items over £2500 can be returned for store credit only.

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