The history of Stuart crystal jewelry originated with the execution of King Charles 1 in 1649. The loyal followers , in silent support of their beloved King, wore jewelry designed with a faceted crystal, below which contained a cypher with his initials or miniature portraits. Later, the tradition followed as these beautiful designs were adapted for items of personal use.

In this example, the ring is designed with a simple shank, slightly reeded at the sides with gently arched shoulders, typical of the period. The band originally would have had some black enamel, and tiny remnants of this are still evident in the crevices of the reeding. The central element is a square, step-faceted crystal, below which is a cypher woven with gold threads. The crystal is set in hand crimped collets. The crystal is bright, with slight scratching and edge wear to the facets seen under magnification. This is seen only under magnification and is commensurate with age. The cypher is in excellent condition. The gold is high carat and most striking is the simplicity of design and the beautiful execution.

It is a size 6 3/4 US. Rare, as well as beautiful. English, late 17th -early 18th century