Georgian Poison Ring in Gold with Onyx is Cunningly Beautiful

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Georgian Poison Ring in Gold with Onyx is Cunningly Beautiful

About the Item

This Georgian-era poison ring from the early 19th century is as cunning as it is beautiful. The shoulders of the 14k-ish yellow gold ring feature a pair of grand Corinthian pilasters that support a tablet of natural onyx that is white on the bottom and black on the top. The rectangular onyx rests atop a beveled gold "book." And that would appear to be all that there is to the ring. A simple, elegant and classic antique gold ring with a slab of onyx. But if you peer closer at the side of the beveled gold "book," you will see the slightest crescent-moon shaped indentation. So easy to miss. And just large enough to receive the edge of a thumbnail. Firmly pry the top up and the "book" opens to reveal a secret compartment. Poison rings have a long, macabre history dating back to the ancient Romans who concealed poison inside the compartment. This poison was used against a foe or to end one's own life. But they were also called "locket rings," which is a much more romantic name and, indeed, the hidden compartment was frequently used to stow a few strands of hair belonging to a loved one. Unless the loved one was no longer living in which case the poison or locket ring was now a "memorial ring." This is an exquisite ring in remarkable condition. While there are tiny fleabites to the edges of the onyx, there are no actual chips or cracks and no repairs. The locket opens with a "pop" and closes with a "snap" and is quite secure. Jewelry from this was frequently not hallmarked or stamped with a maker's mark. However, under microscopic examination and with the aid of high-intensity side-lighting, it is possible to see the faintest remains of an inscription and a date "1817." Authentic Georgian-era jewelry is rare. Especially rare are Georgian-era poison rings. So this is a real treasure. That it has survived time so relatively unscathed is a testament to how treasured it has always been. This is a sturdy ring. It was extremely well-made to begin with and that's why it has endured and will endure for at least another century. This is an antique ring you could actually wear every day. And the hidden compartment is the perfect size for storing a couple of emergency gummies or a SIM card for your phone. The ring is about a size 8 — 8 ¼ and could be resized by your local jeweler. It weighs 7.56 grams.

Metal:
14k Gold,Gold
Stone:
Onyx
Stone Cut:
Square Cut
Weight:
7 g
Style:
Georgian
Period:
Early 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1817
Condition:
Excellent condition with no signs of damage or repair.
Seller Location:
Southbury, CT
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU158919307562