Vintage Shibayama insect ring crafted in silver and 9 carat gold. Exceptional pieces of artwork, this style has been prised for decades, since they were first made in the late 18th century. Sweet and iridescent colourful little bugs and insects sit on a silver ring. Their legs are carved into the top and their bodies, made of shell, are secured on top making them wonderfully lifelike and playful in appearance. The silver rectangular top is framed by striking gold columns on the sides leading to a tapered band. This particular example dates to around the second quarter of the 20th century and is British in origin.

In excellent condition, noting to note.

Marked 9ct&SILVER. The majority of this ring is sterling silver (tested) with the shanks and shoulders topped in 9 carat gold which is yellow in colour. This ring also has a maker's mark of HG&S for Henry Griffith and Sons, a jeweller in business from the 1850s through 1970s.

Size: UK - R.5; US - 9; EU - 18.9.

Measures approx 13.8 mm / 0.55 inches wide on the finger, rises 2.25 mm tall off the finger (this a lower profile ring in keeping with it being signet in style), with the band tapering to 4.2 mm in back.

Weighs 8.2 grams.