A charming antique ring, a favourite motif of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Mizpah, a Hebrew word meaning watchtower, came to be used in jewelry throughout the Victorian era for its symbolism based on a story told in the Book of Genesis: Jacob and Laban reconcile their differences and as a symbol of their peace, build a mizpah. Laban says to Jacob, "The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent, one from another." The Victorians took the word mizpah as a shorthand for this sentiment, of the protection of a relationship while the parties are separated, and used it to decorate jewels - rings and pendants especially - to be given to family, loved ones, and friends alike.

Fair antique condition with wear in line with age and heavy use, including what appears to be either a full reshank or sizing at each shoulder, and a band that has continued to wear thin. While we love the sentimentality of a mizpah ring especially being worn threadbare, we remind you to exercise caution with your antique rings that have some metal loss. c1900. Originally manufactured in the UK.

Details:
• 9k rosy yellow gold stamped and tested throughout, with British hallmarks for Birmingham 1900, maker’s mark WM (though this section may have been a replacement)
• Size 8 1/8 and do not recommend resizing
• Face of ring is 4.3mm at widest, 18.7 across, with a rise of 0.9mm; back of band measures 4.3mm wide and 0.6mm thick
• 1.9g