On This Day In 1894 - Victorian English 18K Gold Carved 'Forget Me Knot & Foliage' Buckle Band Ring (VICR186)

On This Day In 1894 - Victorian English 18K Gold Carved 'Forget Me Knot & Foliage' Buckle Band Ring. This rare ring is crafted from 18K gold, hallmarked 18 (for 18k gold), a Birmingham anchor assay, date letter N for 1894, and a makers mark S.B. & SLP.  This wonderful ring features its full crisp hallmarks, exquisite engraving, and quality craftsmanship. This Victorian ring is in the form of a classic wedding band, which is engraved beautifully with forget-me-knot flowers., and foliage. The band has a wonderful added touch of a buckle, which adds interest, character, and a uniqueness to the piece. The ring displays a beautiful buttery yellow gold colour, and a soft patina. The inside of the ring has a polished smooth finish, which allows for a comfortable fit.  These antique engraved Victorian era wedding bands are getting harder to find, especially in this fine condition and early date. 

Comments: Wonderful example of a Victorian Buckle ring. In very fine condition. 

Note: Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of antique jewelry. It is recommended that this ring be insured for $3000.00 (Tax Excluded)

History: Events that happened in the United Kingdom 1864: Charing Cross railway station in London opens on Jan 11.  The Great Sheffield Flood :The Dale Dike Dam bursts devastating Sheffield on March 11. March 29 The Treaty of London: Britain voluntarily cedes control of the United States of the lonian islands to the Kingdom of Greece with effect from May 2. 

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

By the 1st Millennium BC, metal jewellery was starting to be engraved using simple tools to create shallow grooves. Gradually the engraving of semi-precious gemstones followed, gaining increased popularity throughout the ancient world. For the Ancient Egyptians, stone was perhaps a more popular medium for engraving.

The Western traditions of wedding rings can be traced to ancient Rome and Greece, and were first associated with the marital dowry and later with a promise of fidelity. The modern exchange of rings derived from the customs of Europe in the Middle Ages as part of Christendom.

Buckle rings, which surged in popularity during the Victorian era (19th Century), serve as symbolic jewelry representing devotion, love, and unbreakable bonds. Historically, they were worn as tokens of commitment and affection, often featuring intricate designs in gold, enamel, and precious stones like diamonds and rubies. 

In the history of the United Kingdom and the British Empire, the Victorian era was the reign of Queen Victoria, from 20 June 1837 until her death on 22 January 1901. Slightly different definitions are sometimes used. 

Measurements: Ring (Widest Width Buckle ) 9.00 mm    Band 6.50 mm 

Weight: 5.60 grams 

Ring Size: 6 3/4

Condition: Excellent    Note: Exquisite deep carving in superb condition, all the way around the ring. 

Origin: England, Birmingham

Date: Dated 1894