A very special mourning ring from the early 18th century, dated 1729.
Fashioned in 18k gold, it features a faceted rock crystal stone set in silver. The enameled band is engraved with the name, date of death, and age of the mourned loved one.
The details on this piece are exquisite! Especially considering it was all done by hand. I especially love the engraving inside the band on the backside of the setting.
According to the engraving around the band:
Eliz. (Elizabeth) Willford died on September 30, 1729 at the age of 73.
I searched the records on Ancestry in an attempt to find Elizabeth Willford, and the closest record I could find was for an Elisabeth Wilford (potential misspelling?) buried in All Hallows the Great in London on October 8, 1729. I found no exact matches to the name Elizabeth Willford for the date of death on the ring or approximate date of birth based on her age at death, but given the variations in spellings at the time and the fact that all records were done by hand, I think it is at least possible that the record I found is our Elizabeth. What do you think? I've included a screenshot of the record in the photos.
+++ Measurements +++
Approx US ring size 3.75
+++ Condition +++
Great condition for her age with some expected wear but no major flaws. Enamel loss around the band, patina, and the band is slightly out of round (I like to imagine it was worn often and shaped to the original owner's finger!). Also some wear to the stone and setting, but it is secure with no movement.
+++ Please read +++
This item is not new, and as such, it has wear commensurate with age. As with all older vintage and antique items, please handle with care.
All items are sold as-is, and I do my best to point out all condition issues and provide a detailed description and photographs.
Unless specified, items have not been cleaned.
I do not accept returns or offer refunds. Please see all photos, read the entire description, and ask any questions before purchasing.