Antique Victorian Diamond Mourning Signet; Circa 1858

Rich in history and deeply personal, this beautiful mid Victorian memorial ring is a poignant survivor from the nineteenth century. More than simply a piece of jewellery, it is a connection to a life once lived, preserving the memory of its original owner over 160 years after it was first created.

Designed in buttery 18 carat gold, the ring has been made in the form of a signet ring, its shoulders leading to a shield shaped sardonyx panel at the centre.  What makes this ring particularly unusual is the inclusion of two old cut diamonds, one nestled to either side of the central stone. Set amongst delicately engraved floral and star motifs now softened by time and generations of wear. Such addition are not often encountered on signet mourning rings.

Inside the band lies the ring's most moving feature. The original memorial inscription reading 'Sophia Goldsmiths Obt 30th January 1858'

Historical records allow us to glimpse the lives behind this inscription. We have traced Sophia and her husband, William Goldsmith, to the 1851 Census, where they are living in Croydon, Surrey. William is listed as a successful wine merchant, and the household reflects a life of considerable prosperity, employing five live in servants—William, James, Jane, Martha and a second Jane.

Their story becomes even more fascinating through their connection with Norbury Manor Estate. The Goldsmith family purchased the estate from the family of Admiral Sir Benjamin Hallowell Carew, the distinguished naval officer who fought under Lord Nelson at the Battle of the Nile. Following Sir Benjamin's death, his son, Charles Hallowell Carew, fell into significant debt and was forced to sell the Norbury Manor Estate at auction in 1855. The Goldsmiths acquired the estate during this period.

William Goldsmith continued to live at Norbury Hall until his death in 1884, becoming a respected figure in both business and education. Beyond his success as a merchant and landowner, he served as one of the original founders and governors of Framlingham College in Suffolk. He endowing the William Goldsmith Scholarship, making a substantial financial gift to support future generations of students upon his death. 

These remarkable discoveries transform the ring from an anonymous mourning jewel into a deeply personal ring. It commemorates not only Sophia Goldsmith, but also offers a rare connection to a prominent Victorian family whose lives, achievements and contributions can still be traced today. 

Sublime and profoundly evocative, this ring is an exceptional example of Victorian memorial jewellery. Combining beautiful materials, unusual diamond detailing and wonderful provenance.

DETAILS

ERA: Mid Victorian - 1858

MEASUREMENTS: Finger size N (UK/AU) 6.75 (US)

WEIGHT: 2.9 grams approximately  

HALLMARKING: Unhallmarked for 18 carat gold

CONDITION: the ring is in good antique condition with only a fine patina of wear to the gold, diamonds and sardonyx. 

If you have any questions about this or any other questions please get in touch & please note the box is for display only.

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