Georgian and Victorian jewelry

Antique bloodstone signet ring in 9 karat gold. The ring is centered on a plate of blood jasper (heliotrope jasper) in a prong setting. The ring head is decorated with a frieze of chased crosses, the shoulders feature a diamond-shaped motif, and the band shows traces of former motifs that have now been erased. Signet ring, for men or women, 19th century foreign work.

Trefoil hallmark and illegible hallmark.

Finger size: 57 EU or 8 US (can be changed)

Ring head dimensions: 14 x 14 mm

Condition: decoration partially faded by time, wears

Weight : 4.90 gr

Gemological Point : Bloodstone, also known as “martyr’s stone” or “heliotrope jasper,” is a dark green jasper. Its distinctive feature is the presence of red spots of iron oxide (inclusions). It is called “bloodstone” or “martyr’s stone” because its red inclusions resemble drops of blood. This is why bloodstone has often been used to create religious jewelry, such as crosses, in reference to the suffering of Christ.

Antique bloodstone signet ring in 18 karat yellow gold (750). Antique signet ring set with a bloodstone cut in the shape of an escutcheon. Antique ring for man or woman, circa 1880, England.

English hallmarks: crown (for gold), 18 (for 18k gold), JH for Joseph Hawkins. Shell hallmark at the level of an old sizing.

Finger circumference: 64 EU or 10.75 US (sizing possible)

Bezel size: 13 x 10 mm

Note: one English hallmark missing due to sizing.
Condition: scratches from use, traces of sizing.

Weight : 8.48 gr

Gemological Point : Bloodstone, also known as “martyr’s stone” or “heliotrope jasper,” is a dark green jasper. Its distinctive feature is the presence of red spots of iron oxide (inclusions). It is called “bloodstone” or “martyr’s stone” because its red inclusions resemble drops of blood. This is why bloodstone has often been used to create religious jewelry, such as crosses, in reference to the suffering of Christ.