The Antique Edwardian Suffragette Ring
Sold February 2021
This antique ring of peridot, diamond and amethyst set in 18 carat gold is most famously known as a suffragette ring. A trio of graduated round cut amethyst and peridot, punctuated by rose cut diamonds, representing the three colours of the UK's Suffrage movement - purple for loyalty and dignity, white for purity, and green for hope.
The suffragettes, embraced the language of contemporary fashion - including its emphasis on delicate femininity - as a strategy for increasing the popular appeal of their movement. As fashion lecturer Cally Blackman notes, "Membership numbers grew, and it became fashionable to identify with the struggle for the vote, even if only by wearing a small piece of jewellery."
This early 20th Century ring was alongside two similar suffragette rings hallmarked for 1907 and 1908. This ring's markings to the inner band are worn but appear to say 18ct. This wonderful piece of history is in good condition with just usual wear consistent with age. The shank is a later replacement as are the coloured stones.
Size P UK/AU, 7½ US/CA, 56½ FR/RU, 17¾ DE
This ring includes an independent jewellery assessment report completed by SafeGuard, part of the AnchorCert Group of the Assay Office of Birmingham. The certificate is included with your purchase and a scanned copy can be seen in the image gallery above.
