Antique Georgian Mourning Ring 9 Carat Gold; Circa 1813

A rather extraordinary Georgian mourning ring, made all the more special by the remarkable history we have been able to uncover behind the names preserved upon it.

Created in 9 carat gold, the ring features a black enamel panel with raised gold lettering recording the deaths of Catherine Cook, who died on 29 January 1798 aged 40, and John Cook, who died on 1 May 1813 aged 67. The reverse is set with a beautifully rich bloodstone and would originally have been designed to swivel, revealing the enamelled mourning inscription when turned. It has since become fixed in its present orientation.

What makes this ring particularly fascinating is that Catherine and John Cook do not simply exist as names engraved into an antique jewel, we have been able to trace them within the historical record. John appears to have been a prosperous wine merchant living on Northgate Street in the heart of Gloucester, and even small fragments of his life survive in contemporary records, including a newspaper notice concerning his acquisition of a game licence.

Most remarkably, John and Catherine were buried within Gloucester Cathedral, alongside their children. This is an extraordinary resting place, and one shared with King Edward II and Robert Curthose, son of William the Conqueror.

There is something particularly poignant about a mourning ring when the names can be returned to the people behind them. More than two centuries later, Catherine and John Cook remain together in gold, their deaths carefully recorded upon a jewel made to preserve their memory. A feature you rarely find; a dedication to two.

A deeply sentimental Georgian treasure, made all the more extraordinary by the tangible connection it gives us to one particular family, their life in Georgian Gloucester and their final resting place within one of England's great medieval cathedrals.

DETAILS:

ERA: Georgian -  1813

HALLMARK: Unhallmarked of 9-10 Carat Gold

WEIGHT: 4.09 grams approximately. 

SIZE: Finger Size R (UK/AU) 9 (US)

CONDITION: This is in lovely antique condition with a fine overall patina to the gold and engravings. 

Please note the antique box is for display only 

If you have any questions about this or any other piece please do not hesitate to ask


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