Antique Rare Ionian Islands Ring; Circa 1820

A sort after and hard to find jewel than can be found in the royal collection! This remarkable Georgian ring dates to circa 1820. Rich in symbolism and beautifully crafted in buttery high carat gold, it is far more than an ornament. It is a wearable expression of identity, patriotism and national pride.

Encircling a central shield are seven exquisitely detailed medallions, each representing one of the Ionian Islands through its traditional emblem.

The seven islands are represented as follows:

Ithaca –the head of Ulysses 

Santa Maura (Lefkada) – A lyre, commemorating the legendary death place of the poet Sappho.

Cephalonia – Cephalus, the island's mythological namesake.

Corfu – A sailing vessel, reflecting the island's rich maritime heritage.

Zante (Zakynthos) – A classical tripod.

Cerigo (Kythira) – Venus emerging from a shell, honouring the island traditionally believed to be the birthplace of the goddess.

Paxos – A trident, sacred to Neptune, god of the sea.

The symbolism in this ring reflects the growing sense of Ionian identity during the first half of the nineteenth century. Following the Treaty of Paris in 1815, the Ionian Islands became a British protectorate. Although administered by Britain, the islands retained a strong Greek cultural identity and many islanders increasingly sought union with mainland Greece. By the 1830s and 1840s, patriotic jewellery such as this became a subtle yet powerful expression of those aspirations. Following the suppression of an uprising in 1850, the political situation attracted debate within the British Parliament before the islands were finally ceded to Greece in 1864. 

Related examples are held within the collections of the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, underlining the rarity and historical importance of this remarkable design. Queen Camilla is known to wear a Ionian Islands ring as a pinky ring, highlighting the enduring appeal and collectability of these exceptional jewels.

Beautifully designed, and fascinating this ring is as much a historical artefact as it is a piece of jewellery. The medallions tell a remarkable story of mythology, patriotism and identity, preserved in gold for over two centuries.

DETAILS

ERA: Late Georgian or Early Victorian 

MEASUREMENTS: Finger size Q (UK/AU) 8  (US) - not sizeable! 

WEIGHT: 6.8 grams approximately  

HALLMARKING: Unhallmarked high carat gold 

CONDITION: the ring is in good antique condition with one wear and softening of the details of the ring.

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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> 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.