1890s Keeper Ring

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This beloved, intricate design of ring is known informally as a "keeper ring" in antique jewellery circles, though why it has been named this, and what this design originally represented, is a matter of some debate. For the most part, jewellery enthusiasts have agreed that the knotwork pattern is meant to represent fidelity, commitment, and love, and was often worn as a wedding band to keep an engagement ring in place. Though this is mostly speculation, we do know that we began to see "keeper rings" in jewellery design as early as the 18th century.

This antique Victorian example is crafted in lush 18K yellow gold, with the crispness of the design rubbed (after over 120 years of wear) to a gorgeous, buttery patina. It shows evidence of previous resizing, but the lovely hallmarks have remained entirely intact. The stamps on the inside of the band indicates that this ring was manufactured in London, England, in the year 1898.