Victorian French Catholic Saints Medal Ring; Circa 1850

An unusual mid Victorian devotional ring. Beautifully created in 9 carat gold and preserving a fascinating piece of 19th century or older religious history.

The ring is designed with an ornate gold mount centred on a double sided glazed locket compartment, allowing its precious contents to be viewed from both the front and back. This style of ring was often used to house cherished keepsakes or devotional objects.

Within the compartment rests a miniature French Catholic saint's medal, finely struck with religious imagery on both sides. Owing to its exceptionally small size and the vast number of saints depicted on 19th century French pilgrimage medals, we have not been able to confidently identify the exact saint or shrine represented. This only adds to the mystery and charm of the piece.

The reverse of the medal bears the beautiful Latin invocation Ave Maris Stella — "Hail, Star of the Sea." . Below is an image of a star building travellers, possibly on a boat or below a flag or sail. 

Dating back to the early medieval period, Ave Maris Stella is one of the most enduring titles of the Virgin Mary, celebrating her as a guiding light and protector, particularly for sailors. 

Rich in symbolism and wonderfully preserved, this ring is a rare fusion of Victorian jewellery, French Catholic devotion, and miniature craftsmanship. Whether appreciated for its religious significance, historical intrigue, or simply its unique design, it is a truly captivating antique.

DETAILS 

ERA: Early Victorian 

MATERIAL/HALLMARK: Unhallmarked 9 ct gold

WEIGHT: 1.75 grams in total approximately 

SIZE: i (igloo) UK/AU 4.25 (US)

CONDITION: This is overall in good antique condition with a patina of wear to the gold and some misting and discolouring inside.

Please note the antique ring box is for display only

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> All of the jewels we work with are antique or vintage and as such they are sold ‘as seen. This means theyre not perfect. They carry the love and journey of generations who love them before. These jewels should be worn with extra and love and care.