Georgian 18ct Gold & Black Opal Ring
London, 1834
A rare and striking early nineteenth-century English ring in 18ct gold, hallmarked London 1834 during the reign of William IV.
At its centre sits a natural black opal cabochon (approx. 7 x 3mm), alive with saturated red fire and electric flashes of green and cobalt blue. The stone exhibits remarkable play-of-colour, shifting with movement and light. The choice of black opal is particularly poignant - its vivid internal fire emerging from a dark ground has long been associated with enduring memory and light within shadow, making it an especially expressive gemstone for memorial jewellery of the period.
The opal is framed within a dramatic surround of black enamel and sculptural rococo goldwork in rich 18ct gold. The carving is beautifully crisp, giving the piece an opulent, baroque presence while retaining a refined scale suitable for wear.
The reverse retains its original closed-back setting and finely engraved memorial inscription reading:
“In Memory of …”
with the date of death (1862) engraved to the inner band. Such personal inscriptions are characteristic of early Victorian sentiment jewellery and add a deeply human dimension to the piece, transforming it from ornament into historical artefact.
Details
London hallmarks, 1834
Maker’s mark W.M
18ct gold
Natural black opal (approx. 7 x 3mm)
Ring size P (UK) / approx. US 7¾
Weight: 3.3 grams
Original engraved memorial inscription
A rare and beautifully preserved example of early nineteenth-century English jewellery - combining craftsmanship, symbolism, and the unmistakable fire of black opal.
Georgian 18ct Gold & Black Opal Ring
London, 1834
A rare and striking early nineteenth-century English ring in 18ct gold, hallmarked London 1834 during the reign of William IV.
At its centre sits a natural black opal cabochon (approx. 7 x 3mm), alive with saturated red fire and electric flashes of green and cobalt blue. The stone exhibits remarkable play-of-colour, shifting with movement and light. The choice of black opal is particularly poignant - its vivid internal fire emerging from a dark ground has long been associated with enduring memory and light within shadow, making it an especially expressive gemstone for memorial jewellery of the period.
The opal is framed within a dramatic surround of black enamel and sculptural rococo goldwork in rich 18ct gold. The carving is beautifully crisp, giving the piece an opulent, baroque presence while retaining a refined scale suitable for wear.
The reverse retains its original closed-back setting and finely engraved memorial inscription reading:
“In Memory of …”
with the date of death (1862) engraved to the inner band. Such personal inscriptions are characteristic of early Victorian sentiment jewellery and add a deeply human dimension to the piece, transforming it from ornament into historical artefact.
Details
London hallmarks, 1834
Maker’s mark W.M
18ct gold
Natural black opal (approx. 7 x 3mm)
Ring size P (UK) / approx. US 7¾
Weight: 3.3 grams
Original engraved memorial inscription
A rare and beautifully preserved example of early nineteenth-century English jewellery - combining craftsmanship, symbolism, and the unmistakable fire of black opal.
