The historical significance of this type of jewelry is fascinating. The prototypes were begun in the mid-17th century after Charles I was executed.

Jewelry in his honor was worn, often with gold wires or cyphers placed under faceted rock crystal. Being one of the Stuart monarchs, we now often refer to these are "Stuart crystals".

An oval faceted rock crystal glints and sparkles. Set into 18k gold, the rub over bezel is undisturbed and original which transitions to a serrated border. These raised serrations are one of the many clues to dating as they fell out of favor in the 18th century.

The crystal, faceted like a rose cut diamond, covers an intricate script gold wire cypher of initials or monogram. This braided gold wire rests atop what appears to be dark cloth.

Ornamental deeply chased sides were once filled in with black enamel, now only a few traces remain. On the underside, sixteen channels are all filled with inky, black opaque enamel with tiny white dots. One channel of the sixteen is now empty. This use of enamel on the shank and to the back are further clues to the ring's early age.

This ring is exceptional in its condition for its great history. The original shank, crystal, bezel, and all gold work remain intact and fine. So often the bezels have been disturbed and the rock crystals removed, replaced, or cleaned. Not so here. Most of the enamel is missing on the shoulders, and there is some loss of enamel to the underside with one channel vacant. However, a majority remains.

Note: Given its age, this ring is not recommended for an engagement ring or one for daily wear, but fine for occasional use.