Antique Georgian White Enamel Mourning Ring; Circa 1771

A remarkable and deeply personal Georgian mourning ring. Created around 1771 to commemorate the life of Benjamin Walmsley by those who loved him dearly. 

Created in rich, buttery 18ct gold, the ring is decorated with a band of white enamel. A significant detail in Georgian mourning jewellery, traditionally used to for unmarried individual. The contrast between the luminous gold lettering and the soft white enamel is both striking and elegant.

The band bears the dedication: “Ben Walmsley died _ Aug 1771 Aged 44” Simple and profoundly human, the inscription captures a moment of loss preserved across more than two centuries.

What makes this piece particularly special is its connection to historical record. Ben Walmsley can be traced to Lancashire, England ~ baptised on 18th June to parents Joshua and Ellen, and later buried in Rochdale at the Church of St Chad. Records note him as residing in Goose Lane, a rural setting with only a handful of homes , offering a poignant glimpse into the quiet life behind the name.

Rings such as this were intimate tokens of remembrance, worn daily to honour and keep close the memory of a loved one. The survival of both the ring and its story creates a powerful link between past and present.

DETAILS 

ERA: 1771 ~ Georgian Era

MATERIAL/HALLMARK: Unhallmarked minimum 18 carat gold

FINGER SIZE O (UK/AU) 7 (US)

WEIGHT: 4.8 grams in total approximately 

Condition: This is overall in fair Georgian era condition; there is a fair amount of wear to the enamel and soft patina to the gold

Please note the antique ring 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.