An exceptionally detailed pansy-face jewel dating to approximately 1900–1905, when late Victorian design was transitioning into Art Nouveau. The naturalistic five-petal flower frames an expressive human face with clearly rendered eyes, brows, nose, mustache and beard. Although properly identified as a pansy face, its bearded foliate appearance also recalls the Green Man motif.
Originally made as a Victorian stick pin, the jewel has been professionally converted into a ring. The original 10K gold pin stem was carefully formed into the slender round-wire shank and securely joined beneath the flower, giving this remarkable antique a new and wearable life.
- Era: Circa 1900–1905; late Victorian to Art Nouveau
- Metal: At least 10K yellow gold
- Ring size: 6.25
- Face: Approximately 12mm tall by 10mm wide
- Profile: Rises approximately 3mm above the hand
- Shank: Approximately 1.5mm thick
- Weight: Approximately 1.35 grams
- Markings: Unmarked; carefully acid tested to verify a gold content of at least 10K
- Construction: Professionally converted from a stick pin using its original pin stem; the shank is securely joined
In excellent condition. The remarkably fine facial and floral details remain crisp, the converted shank is secure and the ring is ready to wear with appropriate care.
This finely detailed antique ring should be worn mindfully. Remove it before showering, swimming, sleeping, exercising, cleaning or performing active work. Avoid frequent or aggressive polishing, which can soften the sculptural relief over time. Clean only as needed with mild neutral soap and a very soft brush, dry thoroughly and lightly buff with a soft untreated cloth. A suitable cloth is included.