Simple traditional vintage 9 carat gold wedding ring. This vintage gold wedding band has been crafted in lightly court / comfort fit shape with a low domed exterior and a rounded interior with softened edges. It's a narrow width band and would look great stacked with another ring or band. The inside is fully hallmarked with British marks for 9 carat gold dating to mid 1940s. The maker's mark is SH, possibly for Samuel Hope, a jeweller in business during the early to mid 20th century.

During World War II (1939-1945) certain metals were reserved specifically for use for the war effort. Wedding rings were previously traditionally crafted in 22ct gold. Gold, needed for some machinery, was limited and people were permitted rings of up to 2 pennyweights, approx 3 grams, each for their wedding rings. The interior of these rings, known as utility rings, are stamped with an additional mark, an O in square to indicate they are utility rings.

Hallmarked for 9 carat gold, assayed in Birmingham, date letter for 1943. The gold is a soft colour, between yellow and rose gold though I see it as closer to modern rose gold.

Size: UK - L; US - 5.75; EU - 16,25. These rings are often made in a heavy gauge wire with the very centre being hallow (like a Twizzler!) to keep them within the prescribed weight. We don't think this one is, but are unable to be certain until it's cut. Because of this we'd recommend against resizing this ring.

Measures 2.9 mm wide and rises 1.5 mm tall off the finger.

Weighs 2.1 grams.


This is the ring on the right in the photo and the bottom ring in the video. It is more rosy in colour than the other ring shown.