Art Nouveau French Signet Ring
French jewelers possess a sense of flair in their designs and this turn of the century ring is no exception. The ring is crafted from 18k yellow gold and embellished with deeply chased work. The sides and shoulders are engraved with motifs of the acanthus leaf as the shoulders transition into a reeded shank.
Engraved with initials rendered in two different fonts — a very strong and masculine “P” and a more delicately incised script “B” the face of the ring is calligraphy in metal. This is most likely a love token given by a woman who’s initial is B to a man with the initial P. If so desired, the initial can be polished out.
Condition: Excellent. Light wear overall as expected with age and use. Minute area of pitting on the interior back.
Hallmarks: French eagle’s head on outside back of shank.
Measurements: 9/16 of an inch (1.4 cm) from north to south by just shy of 1/8 of an inch (0.3 cm) in height. This antique ring has is robust with a weight of 12.5 grams. Currently a size US 11-1/4 (UK W; Euro 20.75, 65.5 mm). Can be sized to fit most.
Date & Origin: Circa 1900; French in origin.
