Antique Georgian Amethyst Mourning Ring; Circa 1813

A deeply evocative Georgian mourning ring timeless in design and rich in personal history.

Created in warm 9 carat rose gold, the ring is centred with an amethyst displaying natural bands of lighter and deeper violet tones. This gentle variation in colour gives the stone a soft, almost ethereal quality. Surrounding the amethyst is a delicate halo of pearls, their creamy lustre providing a contrast. Pearls, long associated with tears for a post loved one, were a symbolic choice within memorial jewellery.

The shank is particularly distinctive, engraved with an unusual grid like pattern setting this piece apart from more traditional designs.

Inside the band, the original inscription remains beautifully preserved ~ “Mary Cooke Oldham died 2 Aug 1813 aged 53”. A poignant dedication, offering a direct connection to the life remembered through this piece.

We have been able to trace Mary Cooke Oldham within historical records, adding a depth to this ring’s story. She lived and in York Place in Brighthelmston (now known as Brighton), and was laid to rest on the 10th of August, just days after her passing. Records show she was married to William and had at least two children.  A son, also named William, baptised in 1798, and a daughter, Mary, baptised in 1789.

Rings such as this were worn as lasting tokens of remembrance, keeping loved ones close. The survival of both the jewel and the story behind it creates a moving connection across more than two centuries.

Elegant, unusual, and steeped in history, this is a touching example of Georgian mourning jewellery. A wearable fragment of the past, imbued with sentiment and story.

DETAILS 

ERA: 1813

MATERIAL/HALLMARK: Unhallmarked minimum 9 carat gold

FINGER SIZE N (UK/AU) 6.5 (US)

WEIGHT: 3.2 grams in total approximately 

Condition: This is overall in fair Georgian era condition; there a patina of wear to the back of the stone from water ingress as well as a historical repair to the inside back of the band,.

Please note the antique ring box is for display only

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

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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.