A beautiful and deeply personal Georgian mourning ring. Dating to the beginning of the 19th century and retaining the intimate details that make these pieces so poignant even today.
The ring has a wonderfully restrained and elegant design. At its centre is an oval glazed locket compartment, still preserving the original woven hair beneath crystal. Hair work was among the most cherished forms of memorial jewellery during the Georgian era, providing a tangible connection to a loved one and transforming jewellery into something deeply personal.
The band itself has a pleasing graduated profile, broadening gently towards the front. Alternating sections of rich black enamel and warm 9 carat gold create a striking contrast. The simplicity of the design allows the sentiment behind the piece to take centre stage.
Inside the band, the original inscription remains, reading 'JW Draper Obt 11 Feb 1801 Aet 34' Recording the death of J. W. Draper on the 11th February 1801, aged just 34 years. Such inscriptions serve as touching reminders that these jewels were created not merely as adornments, but as enduring tributes to lives deeply loved and sadly lost.
There is something particularly moving about the survival of the original hairwork and dedication. Over 220 years later, the ring remains a tangible link to an individual and the person who wished never to forget them. And it's safe to say we haven't.
DETAILS:
ERA: 1801 Georgian
MEASUREMENTS: Finger size L 1/2 (UK/AU) 6 (US)
WEIGHT: 3.8 grams approximately
HALLMARKING: Unhallmarked 9 carat gold
CONDITION: The ring is in lovely antique condition with a fine patina to the entire piece including the enamel, gold and glazed panel. There is one larger knock to the edge however this is subtle overall
