Early Georgian Skull and Crossbones Stuart Crystal Mourning Ring c.1740

A superb antique Georgian ruby and diamond ring made in England, circa 1820. The centre of this ‘target’ shaped cluster ring is set with a 1ct cushion cut deep red ‘pigeon’s blood’ r...

A rare 19th century princely gold cluster ring made in Siam (Thailand), circa 1860.This gorgeous ruby and diamond ring was intricately crafted in high-karat gold, by the goldsmiths of the royal Siam court in the 19th century. It is a fine example of the lavish adornment worn by participants in royal and aristocratic life-cycle ceremonies in the courts of Bangkok. Aside from ceremonial use, they were also occasionally given as gifts to important visitors or other aristocratic families. There was a huge expansion in the number of royals in 19th century Siam which stemmed from Kings Mongkut (Rama IV) and Chulalongkorn (Rama V) being highly polygamous. They had a joint total of 124 wives and 159 royal children, each requiring their own ceremonial regalia and princely jewels. As a result, Bangkok became home to some incredibly skilled goldsmiths in this period and the sheer number of jewellery required has meant that today princely jewels like this one can very occasionally be found in the open market, particularly in Europe following the relocation of the Thai royal family to Switzerland and France in the 1930’s and 1940’s. The ring features a row of cabochon rubies horizontally aligned, surrounded by a sea of rose cut diamonds. All of the stones are in rubover settings within a web of hexagonal honeycomb frames. The band is decorated with pierced and deeply chased scrollwork motifs, typical of Siam jewellery...

This scarce gold intaglio ring dates to the Indonesian Classical period, circa 8th–10th century. The ring is crafted from high-karat gold (22K), featuring a circular bezel that holds an amethyst gemstone engraved with a scorpion motif. Scorpions were often considered symbols of protection in ancient traditions, aligning with Javanese beliefs that rings possessed magical properties to bring good fortune and guard against harm. The stirrup-shaped shoulders, designed to mimic the form of water buffalo horns, are a hallmark of early Javanese craftsmanship. This distinctive design reflects both artistic expression and cultural symbolism rooted in Java’s agricultural and spiritual traditions. Java, one of Indonesia’s largest islands, was a significant centre of civilisation and artistry during this period. Gold rings were not merely decorative but also served as currency, payment for fines, dowries, and even wedding feasts. Imported gemstones, like the present amethyst, were chosen for their astrological, magical, and medicinal properties, further enhancing their importance in Javanese society. Referenced Examples: Similar rings can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Accession No. 1998.544.298). Additional examples are catalogued in Java Gold...

An unusual example of a scarce seven-stone bow ring dating from the early 18th century, circa 1700. The ring was made in Italy (possibly Sicily) and is a fine example of the beauty o...

You cannot help but be enchanted by the beauty and emotion of this stunning antique Georgian mourning band ring. The ring is a very rich 22ct yellow gold, e...

An English or Irish mourning ring made for the family of Elizabeth Brabazon. During her life, there was a prominent Brabazon family that carried the title of Earl of Meath in Ireland...

This charming antique Georgian Mourning ring is full of character. The simple design in no way detracts from it's sentiment and beauty, an earl...

Here we have a wonderful 15ct yellow gold mourning ring from the late Georgian era. This piece has been expertly enamelled in black, white and gold aroun...