The open-worked shank of this delicate 14k gold ring is set with a glass panel, which contains a sulphite symbol of 'Love, Hope and Faith'. Love is symbolized by a gilded heart, Hope by an anchor, and Faith by a cross.
'Love, Hope and Faith' is a motto that was used frequently in antique jewellery, especially in the 19th Century. This quote can be found in the Bible, where the disciple Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:13: 'Three things will last forever: faith, hope, and love - and the greatest of these is love.'
The tiny sulphite depiction of this symbol was invented by British glass manufacturer Apley Pelatt (1791-1863) in the 1820s. These tiny images with minute details were often termed 'cameo incrustation' and later 'sulphides'. Sulphide cameos were used to decorate a wide variety of homeware items, and in some cases also for jewellery. After his death in 1863, the technique fell into disuse, and by 1900, the technique was rarely used anymore.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: Currently a US 9.25, UK S 1/2, circumference 61 mm.
This ring could be resized if desired.
The front measures 11 x 18 mm.
Weight: 1.20 grams
Material: Hallmarked with a Dutch hallmark for 14k gold, used between 1853 and 1905.
Age: 19th Century, Victorian era, circa 1850s.
Condition: In good antique condition, with minor signs of wear, consistent with age. The glass panel has some mild scratches. There is an old repair at the back of the setting, and a resizing mark at the back of the shank.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This store is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from tax in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.