The Ancient 17th Century Memento Mori Gold Thread Cherub Ring

Dating between 1680 and 1720, this breathtaking ring was discovered by a detectorist in 2019, and after meeting the criteria for treasure, it has been through all the official steps required and is now ready for its new home. 

At the apex of the hoop is a raised, crenellated oval bezel with a faceted glass or rock-crystal gem. Beneath the transparent inset is a background of purply grey, possibly hair, set on which is an inner border of gold wire arranged in continuous circular motifs surmounted by a crown raised by cherubs. Within this inner oval cell is a gold wire monogram of initials, possibly EB (presumably those of the deceased individual). 

There is a raised, scrolling, foliate design with traces of black enamel inlay, on each shoulder. There are eleven oblong, parallel cells on its lower edge on each main side which have also been inlaid with the same black enamel as the shoulders. Each cell has a white dot at the base, possibly a fixative.

This ring is registered with the Portable Antiques Scheme, DUR-02929A. This ring is accompanied by correspondence between the finder, the Portable Antiquities Scheme, The British Museum, HM Coroner and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, with a confirmation letter stating that the item can be returned to the finder.