Gold finger ring from the High Ercall Area - Shropshire

Date: late Medieval - Post Medieval (1450-1650 AD)

Date of discovery: September 2012

Circumstances of discovery: Found whilst gardening

Description:

A complete gold finger ring. In plan the ring is circular whilst in cross section it is D shaped. The interior surface of the ring is well finished and a vertical scar can be seen where the ring has been formed. The exterior hoop of the ring is decorated with an incised design contained within two circumferential bands. The decoration is well formed but naively achieved, it consists of a running 'lovers knot' being formed from a single strand with figure of eight knots positioned unevenly around the edge. The ground between the knots is decorated with diagonal incised hachures which again are slightly irregular in application. The ring is hardly worn and has not been affected b y movement or abrasion this is consistent with a find made within garden soil

Dimensions:

Diameter: 18.6mm, height 4.7mm, thickness 1.7mm, weight; 1.89 grams. Internal diameter 15.9mm

Discussion and Dating:

The ring's use of a lovers knot as the central design fits well with the use of rings as gifts between lovers or as acts of betrothal . These are seen in the later medieval period and more commonly in the early post medieval with the rise of giving posie rings (rings with a motto written on the internal edge). The style of this ring dates it to the later 15th or 16th centuries AD. The style of the naive inscribed decoration would suggest an able - but not highly experienced (quality) goldsmith

Metal Content:

I believe that the precious metal content (gold) of the finger-ring fulfils the requirements of the Treasure Act in that it is greater than 10%.

References:

Oman C: 1974 British Rings 800-1914 Batsford, London.

Authors:

Peter Reavill, Finds Liaison Officer, Portable Antiquities Scheme

Caroline Barton: British Museum