Stock No. 3195	17th Century gold posy ring
	Charming 17th century solid gold posy ring of a very high grade of gold. The inside of the ring is inscribed:- "Your Freind Unchangable".

Condition :-Extremely good condition. The inscription inside the ring is still very crisp. The ring is a little irregular in shape but this does not show when it is worn and just adds to its charm as a very antique ring
Circa :- 1680
Size :- 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) internal diameter
The posy ring was the most popular type of love ring in use since the Middle Ages. The name "posy" was derived from the fact that the inscription was often in rhyme or "poesy". These rings were usually given by both men and women as an expression of emotion, attachment, or even love. The posy ring reached its peak of popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries. By the 17th and 18th centuries, most posy rings were also used as wedding rings. Although some of the inscriptions were originated by the donor, there were also a number of standard inscriptions which could be bought already engraved on the rings. It is almost impossible to put an exact date on a 17th century posy ring because the rings are dated mostly by the script of the inscription which did not change throughout the 17th century and somewhat by the wording.. Although this is quite a small ring, it would fit the little finger of a slim hand. Alternatively, on a larger hand, it would sit very comfortably just above the second knuckle of the little finger. 17th century paintings show women wearing rings in this way and this ring could be worn to-day in this way to much effect.

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