Clandestine love, secret messages, and hidden meanings - all have their place in the world of jewelry.

In this charming ring, the first letter of the name of each gemstone spells out "REGARD". R for ruby, E for emerald, G for garnet, A for amethyst, R again for ruby, and D for diamond.

Popular in the 19th century, particularly during what is known as the romantic period of the Georgian and Victorian eras, and ending around the 1850s, acrostic jewelry (as it is so named) was often given between friends, lovers, and family members. Some examples allude to the words dear or dearest, others a person's name, and others still adore or love.

A token of esteem and affection given long ago, all the gemstones and the diamond are natural. These are set into glowing, 18k yellow gold.

Each of the stones is set into a bezel with tiny serrated edges and miniature prongs that impart a lacy look. Textured asymmetrical leaves grace each shoulder. Rare and authentic.