This 18k gold 'lucky nail' ring depicts a nail that has been elegantly shaped to wrap around itself. Its head is set with a sugarloaf-cut natural sapphire.
Equestrian lucky jewels that depicted horseshoes, horseshoe nails, or a combination of these symbols were worn quite often in the late 19th and early 20th Century. Rooted in old equestrian traditions and regional folklore, where the iron horseshoe and its nails have been used as protective amulets for many centuries, the lucky nail symbolizes strength, protection, and prosperity.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Ring size: US 6, UK L 1/2, circumference 52 mm.
This ring could be resized if desired.
Weight: 3.05 grams
Age: Early 20th Century, Art Deco era, circa 1960s.
Material: The back of the shank has four hallmarks: one for 18k gold, and one for the importer of this ring, Frans Eijck Jewelers, who operated in the Netherlands between 1957 and 1988. The two hallmarks on the left are worn, and I was unfortunately not able to identify them.
Condition: In great vintage condition with only minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This shop is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.