THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT ~
Type: Ring
Materials: 18k Gold
Size: 9
Era: Victorian (1837-1901)
ABOUT:
Incredibly romantic and fairly scarce antique wide band ring reading "I Cling to Thee" across the ring face with Ivy designs at the shoulders and above and below the text. I wanted this to be mine forever, as it is more legible and thicker / sturdier than the one I have (and than many others I have seen), but it's too far a size down to my size 5 finger so I have to let it go. Often the text is worn or muddled but this one is super clear with deeply embossed ivy graphics with the text rising above a pebble textured background.
The ivy motif was popular in Victorian times in jewelry as it represents life and eternity (essentially immortality), along with clinging attachment. It also was used to express fidelity and friendship.
Lovely antique patina with the glowing buttery yellow gold with some rosy warmth from age. The band tapers towards the back. Elegant design looks great in a ring stack with the awesome message, and would also make a unique gift.
Full English hallmarks for Birmingham, 19k Gold, the date mark is muddled but it looks like possible an n or o in the font used in the late 1800s, c1880s.
SIZE & MEASUREMENTS:
Currently a size 9. The band is 8mm at the widest in the center and tapers to 1.3mm. It weighs almost 3 grams.
IMPORTANT CONDITION NOTES:
All my pieces are pre-owned and in estate condition. The shank is thin in the back from wear and blunt at the edges. It doesn't flex when you squeeze it but it is quite thin at the back. Surface wear and scratches to the gold. It is still very legible with clear bold text that is easy to read, which is nice as the other one I had had was quite worn. Still very wearable and so romantic.
But Please note this is not a mint condition item.
Very sweet piece from a very special era. I enjoy making my customers happy and matching unique pieces with new homes. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions! It means a lot to me that you are visiting my shop! : )
SOCIAL:
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Thanks so much for looking at my items!
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