This is a fabulous and very rare, original antique Georgian (circa 1821) rose gold lovers eye mourning ring with black unknown stones (possibly paste), in a size S1/2, US 9 1/4.
A "lovers eye" miniature is a painted miniature of the givers eye, presented to a loved one. The notion accompanying this very short lived fad (C. 1790 to 1820) was that the eye would be recognizable only to the recipient and could, therefore, be worn publicly keeping the lover's identity a secret. Some, too, were painted in memory of the deceased. All were intimate and exceedingly precious: the eyes were painted, then set inside ruby-garlanded brooches, pearl or stone-encrusted rings, or ornate golden charms meant to be tucked into pockets, or pinned close to the heart.
The ring has an inscription on the back as pictured that says "Marg (or Mary?) Riley, OC 19 Dec 1821, Ce.16". The black stones each measure around 2.5mm, and the eye panel measures around 12 x 9mm. The head of the ring measures around 1.7 x 1.5cm, so is a good size, and the back of the band measures around 5mm in width. It's condition is commensurate with age (it is over 200 years old!). The ring has been resized at some point in time and has had a couple of repairs, but nothing too obvious. It is not hallmarked but this was often the case back in the day, though it has tested as 9ct gold on our Kee Electronic Gold Tester. It weighs around 5g.
 
27/07/24-1