A fine and substantial Victorian signet ring in 15ct yellow gold, dating to circa 1870. The face is set with an octagonal carnelian in a rub-over setting, engraved with a cartouche — a personal touch that speaks to the ring's original purpose as a seal. The mount is decoratively embellished with foliate detail that continues around three-quarters of the shank, the shoulders tapering elegantly from 1.3cm at the head down to 0.3cm at the back of the band. At 11g, this is a ring with a genuinely satisfying weight and presence.

A handsome and wearable antique signet ring — the carnelian was one of the most popular stones for Victorian seal rings, and the foliate engraving on this example gives it a richness and character that plain-shanked examples lack.

The Details

• Circa: 1870
• Metal: 15ct yellow gold
• Stone: Octagonal carnelian, rub-over set, cartouche engraved
• Detail: Foliate engraving to shank (three-quarter)
• Ring Size: T (UK)
• Weight: 11g
• Dimensions: 1.8 × 1.9cm
• Hallmarks: 15ct