Dating to c.1710-1730, I am very pleased to present this museum-worthy silver gentleman's devotional ring for the consideration of my new Etsy clientele! Measuring 5/8" x 1/2" across the octagonal bezel, this late Baroque silver ring is unmarked, and tests to .800 purity. It is Continental in origin (very possibly German). This is easily one of the best-preserved silver devotional rings of it's date that I have handled in my 30+ years as a collector, dealer and scholar of early jewelry, and it is nothing short of amazing that it has made it into the 21st century in nearly unworn condition! This signet-style ring is completely hand-wrought, and the fact that it is lower-grade silver indicates that it was meant for wear by a devout skilled laborer, rather than for a wealthy gentleman. Most people in the early 18th century could not afford pure silver, let alone gold, but they still wished to follow changing fashions, as the octagonal bezel and decoration displayed in this ring was up-to-the-moment in the late Baroque style of the first 1/4 of the 18th century. This distinctly "middle class" ring may have also been worn by a Church cleric who worked with his parish. The bezel of the ring is cast in two sections, and was hand-soldered and finished. One can still see the seam at the rear of the shank, as well as the tool mark, evens after over three centuries! It appears that it was worn very little; the silver shows almost no structural wear. This is a large ring; a whopping size 12 1/4, and may have been worn over the glove of the original owner, as was the fashion of the era. The bezel is engraved in Roman capitals with the Christogram "IHS," with a cross incorporated into the letter "H", and the three nails of the Trinity below. The border of the bezel is stippled and engraved, a stylistic holdover from 17th century signet ring design. The shoulders are decorated with engraved shields. Weighing in at 9.48 grams, this is a substantial ring, and has survived the past three centuries in 100% intact condition, with no damage or losses! The silver has built up a rich, matte surface patina, and this ring should NOT be cleaned; to do so would devalue it as an antique, and damage it's integrity as an all-original, early jewel. However, it is suitable for gentle wear. it should not be exposed to extreme temperatures or to water, but will look very impressive on your hand this holiday season! If you collect the finest in devotional rings, this example could not be in more pristine condition! It would also make a fascinating gift for anyone interested in early devotional rings, and will be shipped in a gift box. Do not miss this remarkable relic; up to 60-day layaway is available with 1/3 down, and USPS domestic shipping is FREE!
