Georgian Ring with Renaissance Cameo

This antique Georgian gold ring, dating to around 1820, is set with an earlier cameo from the late 16th to early 17th century. The cameo features a delicately carved profile and is framed within a scalloped and enamelled bezel, reminiscent of 17th-century ring designs—suggesting it was deliberately set in a style that pays homage to the earlier gem.

The shoulders are adorned with repoussé acanthus leaves, leading to a fluted shank, a detail characteristic of early 19th-century jewellery. The bezel, measuring 7 x 9mm and protruding 4mm, incorporates an unusual design where one section slightly overhangs, yet this appears to be an intentional aesthetic choice, as evidenced by the enamelling.

This ring came in a box from Parkes & Co., a renowned firm based at 12 Vigo Street, Regent Street. Established in 1777, Parkes & Co. specialised in high-class jewels, silver, and curiosities, suggesting that this piece was likely retailed through them.

Unmarked but testing as 14K gold, the ring may indicate a German or Dutch origin. A rare example of a 19th-century setting preserving an earlier, 17th-century cameo, blending two distinct periods of craftsmanship.

Size: UK N, US 6.75.

Cameo: 6 x 5mm.

Bezel: 7 x 9mm, protruding 4mm.

Condition: Excellent antique condition, with enamel detailing well-preserved.