Description:

Fragment 1: The fragment has a rectangular shape, at one end is a protruding, flat, sub-rectangular flange where the ring would have been joined to fragment 2. The band is flat and the outer surface is decorated with a raised inscription in black letter script - 'm o r', set within a recessed panel with a plain raised rim. The reverse of the fragment is plain with some deep scratches and there is a thin crack running vertically through the band between the letters 'm' and 'o'. The breaks appear to be quite fresh as they are not abraded.

Measurements: length, (including flange): 11.69mm; width: 5.47mm: thickness: 0.83mm; weight: 0.31g.

Fragment 2: The fragment has a rectangular shape with parallel sides. The outer surface of the band is decorated with a raised scrolled/foliate decoration set within a recessed panel with a plain raised rim. The reverse of the fragment is plain and at one end is a sub-rectangular scar where the flange from Fragment 1 was originally fixed.

Measurements: length: 10.83mm; width: 5.39mm: thickness: 0.80mm; weight: 0.41g.

Discussion: The interlace foliate decoration may represent a love-knot, or las d’amors, which would make the inscription likely to be part of the word ‘amor’. The ring is likely to have been a betrothal ring, or gift. Similar inscriptions found on rings include ‘amor meus’ and ‘amor vincit omnia’.

Conclusion: It is therefore clear that this ring dates to before 1718 and as the object is made of more than 10% precious metals, it constitutes potential Treasure under the stipulations of The Treasure Act 1996.