Antique 1902c Robert Pringle & Sons Sterling Silver REGARD band Ring Size 8.5 Q

A beautiful piece of Edwardian sentimentality, carrying a secret message of affection from more than 120 years ago.

 

Dating precisely to 1902, this wonderful antique sterling silver REGARD ring was crafted by respected English silversmith and jeweller Robert Pringle & Sons and assayed in Birmingham, England.

 

The broad silver band features the word “REGARD” worked prominently across the front in wonderfully decorative old english lettering, surrounded by an intricate arrangement of scrolling and foliate-inspired detail. The darkened recesses developed within the design beautifully emphasise the lettering and ornamentation, giving the ring that unmistakable depth and character that only genuine antique silver acquires with age.

 

But it is the meaning behind the word REGARD that makes this piece particularly special.

 

During the Georgian and Victorian periods, sentimental jewellery became an intimate language of its own. Words such as REGARD, DEAREST and MIZPAH allowed jewellery to communicate affection, devotion and remembrance.

 

“Regard” was a beautifully restrained expression of love, esteem and affectionate remembrance — sentiments perfectly suited to an era in which emotion was often communicated through symbolism rather than openly declared.

 

The tradition is perhaps best known through gemstone REGARD jewellery, where the first letter of each gemstone — traditionally Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond — spelled the word. This sterling silver example takes that same romantic sentiment and expresses it boldly in the design itself, making the message impossible to miss.

 

The interior carries a lovely set of English hallmarks, including the maker's mark for Robert Pringle & Sons, Birmingham assay marks and the date letter corresponding to 1902. Robert Pringle & Sons was a well-established British jewellery and silversmithing firm whose pieces are still sought after by collectors of antique English silver.

 

Now more than 120 years old, the ring retains the wonderfully individual character expected of a genuine piece of Edwardian jewellery. Surface marks, softened detail and areas of patina are visible from generations of wear, but rather than detracting from the piece, they tell its story beautifully.

 

There is something especially appealing about wearing an antique sentiment ring today. Its message remains just as meaningful as it was in 1902 — to hold someone in loving regard, and to remember them fondly.

 

A fabulous addition to an antique jewellery collection, sentimental jewellery collection, or an evocative everyday piece for someone drawn to jewellery with history, symbolism and soul.

 

DETAILS

 

•  Full Birmingham English hallmarks are present, complete with a date stamp for the year 1902, and a makers mark for Robert Pringle & Sons. 
•  Measures as a size 8.5 US or Q UK/AU.
•  The inner diameter of the band measures 18mm.
•  The face of the band measures approx 6mm wide, tapering to 4mm at the base of the shank. 
•  Weighs  3.01 grams. 

 

CONDITION

 

Good preloved antique condition, with some signs of wear that are commensurate with the age of this piece, simply adding character and charm.  Some fine marks, scratches and patina are present.  Some minor signs of rub wear to the lettering is present. Hallmarks are crisp and clear, and the band is nice and round showing no significant signs of thinning.