This rare and collectable signet ring is made from iron with a brass inlay, which prevents it from rusting. The signet depicts a watch tower and two buildings, which likely were an important landmark for its original owner, but which I was unfortunately not able to identify. Its owner used the seal to close off letters: if you look closely, you'll notice that faint remnants of red laquer are still present.
Fer de Berlin jewellery is often associated with the Prussian wars against Napoleon, because wealthy families would be asked to turn in their gold jewels to fund the war effort, and would in return receive iron jewellery as a token of their patriotism. Some of these jewels were even inscribed ' Gold gab ich für Eisen' or 'I gave gold for iron'.
The creation of iron jewellery can be credited to Siméon Pierre Devaranne (Berlin, 1789-1859), who was trained as a jeweller and retailer and won an international reputation for the delicacy of the casting of his iron jewellery. Because of this background, these type of jewels are now known as 'Fer de Berlin'.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: US 13, UK Z+1, circumference 70 cm.
I would advise against resizing this ring.
Weight: 14.70 grams.
Age: Early 19th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1820s.
Material: Iron and brass.
Condition: In good antique condition with minor signs of wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.