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Directory: Estate Jewelry: Gold: Period: Pre 1950: Item # 1496263

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Moylan-Smelkinson/The Spare Room
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P.O. Box 4684
Baltimore, Maryland 21212
tel. 410-435-3738

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We love this bloodstone Chalcedony signet ring for its unusual decorative shield shape, a copy of a decorative shield that was popular in the 19th century. The shape of this escutcheon (another name for shield) is called "two engrailed top" and refers to the top of the shield with its double scalloped design. The double scallop line references a river or an ocean. The term "engrailed" comes from the Old French word graal, meaning "grail" (cup or chalice). Shield shapes are derived from shields used by knights in combat and vary by region and era. The different top shapes identify different family lineages. The ring has a 585 stamp indicating 14 carat gold. The underside of the escutcheon is built out and shaped to match the front of the ring and adds to the appeal and craftsmanship of this lovely ring. The ring is a size 10 and weighs 8 grams.