Recently Sold (VR740)

Birks - Vintage 10K Gold Gents Signet Ring. This wonderful ring is crafted from 10K yellow, and white gold, hallmarked 10K, and the makers initial, and BIRKS.  Featuring classic styling, and quality craftsmanship. This unique signet ring has an oval face, which is rendered from white gold, and a brushed finish. Whilst the rest of the ring is crafted from yellow gold, featuring wonderful engraved grooved shoulders, and polished finish. The shank is smooth and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This Vintage ring looks fantastic when worn, and is very unique in the fact that it has contrasting gold colors, and finishes. 

History: Originating from the Latin word “signum” meaning “sign”, signet rings originated amongst religious leaders and Pharaohs. These rings were used to mark and seal documents by pressing the face which were historically marked with a unique family crest, into hot wax.

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.

Although the origin of white color gold dates back to 1710, where it was discovered by two alchemists in Germany, it wasn't used widely until much later. White gold as we know it today was really popularised in the 1920s. Although it might seem strange, this luxury material came to popularity in wartime.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 15.00 mm x 11.00 mm 

Weight: 3.70 grams 

Ring Size: 10 1/2  Note: Can be sized easily 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Canada  Maker: Birks 

Date: Circa 1960