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thumbnail of 1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (on white background) thumbnail of 1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (detail view) thumbnail of 1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (side view) thumbnail of 1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (profile view) thumbnail of 1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (backside view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (on white background)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (detail view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (side view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (profile view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (backside view)
Vintage

1806 Garnet Mourning Ring

1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (on white background)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (detail view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (side view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (profile view)
1806 Garnet Mourning Ring (backside view)
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An unusual Georgian-era mourning ring with a rectangular garnet cabochon center surrounded by opalescent white enamel and a black enamel border. In the 18th century white enamel was commonly used in mourning jewelry to represent the loss of a child. The inscription inside corresponds with that symbolism as it reads "John Poore, born 24 Nov. 1805, died 8 Nov 1806." A little research suggests the wearer might have been part of a Poore family that settled in New Hamphire in the 18th century.

Though the ring represents a tragedy, rings like this were meant to celebrate the life of a loved one. The glowing red garnet heart and halo of pink-tinged white enamel feels particularly poetic and ethereal. 

Currently a size 7-/4 and best not resized. Note that rings of this era are somewhat delicate and should be worn carefully.

Materials

Garnet, 14K and Enamel

Date

c1806

Condition

Good. Very minor enamel losses. Oxidation.

Size

US Size 7-1/4 (best not resized)