Antique Georgian Miniature Eye Ring 14k Gold miniature painting Unisex (7131)

Antique Georgian ring. 14k gold with glazed compartment over a miniature hand painted portrait of eye. Made in England, UK, circa 1780-1790. Unisex - can be worn by a man or a woman.

Measurements: Weight is 11.2 grams. Just under 1 1/4 inches (3cm) long. Ring size is US 7.75

Description : A very early eye miniature ring. It depicts the left eye of a woman with blond curls above her hazel brown eye. Set in an elongated, octogonal stepped gold mount under a glazed compartment. Stepped gold mount with simple beading indented into the sides - barely visible with the naked eye. Simple gold shank. The exact origin of eye miniatures is steeped in mystery and debate. It was said that the Prince Regent had one made for his secret wife, Mrs Fitzherberg. Eye rings then became very popular. Only the giver and the receiver would know the identify of the portrait adding to the romance and excitement of the gift. This is a particularly early example, dating to the late 18th century. It can of course, be worn by either a man or a woman.

Marks and Metal: No marks as is to be expected. Gold was acid tested to ensure metal purity.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.