This yellow gold gimmel ring is made up of two separate bands, which have been designed to intertwine so that they can be worn united as a single ring. The name Gimmel originates from the Latin 'gemellus' meaning twin, and these rings were likely invented in the 15th Century and of French origin.
They were a popular choice for betrothal rings, o
ften inscribed with the name of the couple on each side, as well as a written inscription referring to the sanctity of the union. The bands were sometimes separated, one part each worn by the betrothed couple, and then reunited as one ring on the bride’s hand upon marriage.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: US 10.5, UK V, Circumference 63 mm. 2.75 mm wide.
This ring cannot be sized.
Weight: 4.00 grams.
Age: Early 19th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1830s.
Material and hallmarks: These bands have been hallmarked twice! The first hallmark is a tiny lion's head for 18k gold, used in the Netherlands between 1814 and 1905. The rings were re-assayed in the 21st Century and then received new hallmarks for 14k gold. This is something I have seen more often: the current assaying tools are way more precise than in the 19th Century, and therefore sometimes antique 18k gold tests as just below, therefore receiving a stamp for 14k.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age. I had one of the tiny rods inside the ring restored, so the bands shut together securely. The inside of the bands is still unengraved.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.