Antique Victorian Sentimental 'AEI' Ring in 18 Carat Gold; circa 1860

A deeply sentimental jewel from the mid-Victorian era, this 18 carat gold ring combines vivid blue enamel with the fire of diamonds to carry a message intended to last forever.

The rich blue enamel provides a beautiful backdrop for the diamond set letters ‘AEI’, derived from the Greek word aeí, meaning ‘always’. This poignant sentiment was a popular motif in Victorian love and mourning jewellery, expressing a devotion intended to endure beyond distance, separation or even death.

The contrast between the vibrant blue enamel and the bright diamonds gives the ring a distinctive presence, while its meaning lends it a much more intimate quality. Jewellery of this kind was rarely simply decorative; it was a way to keep a person or a memory close.

There is a particularly lovely historical connection to this design, too. A very similar example of a Victorian mourning ring is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), offering a wonderful comparison and placing this piece within a recognised tradition of Victorian sentimental jewellery.

You can see the museum example here: V&A — Mourning Ring.

A beautiful example of Victorian sentimental jewellery, rich in symbolism and made all the more poignant by the message it carries — always.

DETAILS

ERA: Victorian Circa 8160

SIZE: Finger K (UK/AU) 5 (US) - we wouldn't recommend sizing this. 

WEIGHT: 3.9 grams approximately

HALLMARKING: Unhallmarked 18 Carat Gold - the original hallmarked are most likely below the historical gold band sizing additional 

CONDITION: The ring is lovely and expected condition for a ring of this age with overall patina of wear. All diamonds are present, there is some enamel loss (see side of ring).

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 all 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.