Georgian Era Gold Memorial Ring

A fine early 19th-century memorial ring, crafted in England around the year 1815, in 9K gold. The cluster head is set with a halo of grey seed pearls surrounding a step-cut foiled citrine, its rich amber tones framed by the luminous, softly aged pearls. The shoulders are ornamented with an unusual corkscrew motif, adding a decorative flourish typical of the late Georgian era.

The reverse of the ring conceals a poignant memorial inscription, finely engraved in cursive: [Name indistinct] Esq. ob. 2 Jan 1814, Aged 67. The use of “Esquire” reflects the status of the deceased as a gentleman of the landed gentry, a rank just below knight. Memorial rings such as this were deeply personal objects, commissioned by the family of the deceased both as a remembrance and as a tangible expression of social standing.

UK ring size I, US size 4.25

Despite over two centuries of history, the ring remains in good condition. The seed pearls show minor age-related wear and discolouration, and the band bears signs of an historic resizing. The citrine retains its sparkle, securely set within its foiled mount. A particularly characterful example of Georgian memorial jewellery, carrying both beauty and personal history.