Antique Georgian Mourning Ring in 9 Carat Gold; Circa 1786

A remarkable Georgian mourning ring, and a wonderful example of the deeply personal and sentimental jewellery created to remember those who had passed by those who were left behind. 

The ring is formed around a marquise shaped glazed compartment, bordered with beautiful blue enamel. Beneath the glass sits a rich, deep blue fabric, upon which the initials “EH” have been carefully created in gold, worked in an ornate floral font. The effect is wonderfully intimate. A tiny memorial preserved beneath glass and gold still as striking after so long. 

Perhaps the most poignant detail is found beneath the setting, where the ring retains its original hand engraving and dedication: “Elean. Holyland died 19th January 1786 Aged 29”

The survival of this inscription makes the ring extraordinarily special. We have been able to locate Eleanor Holyland’s burial record within the London archives and are continuing to research her life and story. While there is still more to uncover, the existence of such a beautifully made memorial speaks to the importance she held to those who commissioned the ring.

Over two centuries later, Eleanor’s name is still here, preserved within the gold. There is something incredibly moving about that. We may not yet know the full story of her life, but we know that someone cared enough to have this extraordinary jewel made in her memory. A little piece of love that has survived more than 240 years.

DETAILS:

ERA: 1786

HALLMARKS: Unhallmarked 9 carat gold minimum 

FINGER SIZE: J (UK/AU) 4.75 (US)

WEIGHT: 4.3 grams approximately.  

CONDITION: This is in lovely antique condition with som enamel loss to the edge. There is a historical sizing mark on the back as well as a very fine cleeve on the bottom inside of the glass. 

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


-Please feel free to take a look at all photographs and condition before committing to buy. We do not offer refunds so if in doubt drop us and email and wed be happy to help!

-We ship worldwide on all orders & parcels are sent fully insured and well packed in our signature black boxes

-We accept most methods of payment, and orders will be shipped out within 1-3 business days.

-All customs information is declared and we are not responsible for any import duties or delays incurred.

- 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.