Victorian 18ct Gold Signet Ring Set With A Bloodstone With Dolphin Intaglio

This is a great looking 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) gold signet ringA ring with a central plaque on which one’s initials, a seal, or a crest is engraved. that was made in London circa 1880. It has been set with a bloodstoneA dark green to dark bluish-green variety of Chalcedony that is splattered with red or brown spots that resemble blood. The extent of the marking varies depending on the stone. Spots are favoured over larger stripes and markings., so called because of the red flecks of hematite within. This example is particularly rich in red speckling. The beautifully carved carved intaglioAn engraved stone, the opposite of a cameo, with a recessed design cut below the surface of the stone. Intaglio designs are common for signet rings and fob seals. is a stylised heraldic dolphin. Dolphins have always been a symbol of luck and protection especially at sea where they are known to have saved drowning ships and people.