Antique French Enamel Compartment Love Token Ring of 20k Gold
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A rare and extraordinary 19th-century French sentimental ring crafted in luxurious 20ct gold, nearly identical to the celebrated example housed in the Victoria & Albert Museum’s permanent collection. (Accession Number M.172-1962)
The hoop is exquisitely enameled with roses and daisies—symbols of passionate love and innocence—rendered in vivid color and fine detail. Encircling the band, these floral motifs capture the Romantic era’s fascination with the language of flowers.
What truly sets this jewel apart are its ingenious hinged panels, each opening to reveal classic French inscriptions: “Je t’aime un peu, je t'aime passionnément, je t'aime pas du tout” -- playful declarations, inspired by the beloved childhood “daisy game” of chance and affection.
One hinged compartment was expertly restored in the past with a 10k gold panel that no longer opens—an unobtrusive, period-appropriate repair that adds a layer of history without diminishing the ring’s allure. The enamel shows light wear consistent with age, yet remains largely intact, and the inscriptions are crisp and legible.
Measuring 0.2 inches wide, the ring (circa 1830-1860) carries a pleasing weight on the hand and survives in fine antique condition, with both enamel and mechanism well preserved. It is a US size 6 and, due to the intricacy of its construction, cannot be resized.
Professionally tested by XRF analysis and traditional jeweler’s acid testing, the ring has been confirmed as solid 20 karat gold—an uncommon and luxurious standard rarely encountered in antique jewels.
