18th Century gold posy ring

18th century solid gold posy ring of a very high grade of gold and a pale lemon colour. Circa 1750. The exterior is a plain band with a slightly curved shape. The inside of the ring is struck firmly with the makers mark - J W with mullet between, although the first letter is now somewhat worn. Although the inscription is now very worn in parts, it would seem that it reads:- In unity with thee my comfort be.



The posy ring was the most common type of love ring in use since the Middle Ages. The name posy was derived from the amatory inscription which this type of ring bears and which is usually in rhyme or poesy. These rings were widely used in the Middle Ages (but are now hard to find). Posy rings were usually given by both men and women as an expression of regard, friendship, attachment, or even love. The posy ring reached its peak of popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries. The posies on medieval rings were usually inscribed on the outside of the hoop (which was flat). In later times, they were usually inscribed inside and the hoop was more rounded. By the 17th and 18th centuries, most posy rings were 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.



Maker :- J W with mullet between