Antique 1870s Victorian English mourning ring with French Jet

A 9 carat English mourning ring with French jet, black tracery, and a personal dedication. The ring is engraved in memory of a Mr. William Hales who died on July 6th, 1879 at the age of 76 years. “William Hales” and his death date are engraved in a pretty hand on the underside of the ring face, with the top being set with a black paste (“French Jet”). The stone is trimmed with a briar-like enamel accent and further enamel work zig-zags down the shoulders. Evidence of resizing that likely removed hallmarks. English in origin. Wear consistent with age.

When Mr. Hales died in England in the late 19th century, mourning jewelry was made as a relic of comfort and remembrance not for mere funeral goers, but really only for close family and friends. The pieces in the late 1800s were more elaborate, more sentimental, and more personal than the souvenir mourning jewelry of the 18th and 17th centuries. Jewelers would stock partially finished pieces for families to chose from, needing only to add hair, a chosen quotation or an engraving to complete the custom order. This was called “fashioning.” Of note: Mourning jewelry traditions in America were adapted from English customs: goldsmiths and jewelers in the colonies started by importing goods from England but quickly had enough local demand to make their own rings, brooches, etc. from scratch.

Measurements: Size 4 1/2 US, 2.5 grams. 
Era: 1870s
Markings: Engraving inside shank