Silver Poesy Rings.
Poesy rings are becoming increasingly popular today, but they have a long and rich history.
The word 'poesy' ('posy' or 'poesie') is an archaic word for poetry, and the term refers to the verse or rhyming motto which is found engraved on a silver or gold band ring. The rings were very common in England from the 16th century onwards, but examples have been discovered which date from the 14th century. The poesy ring then remained a popular choice in band rings until late in the 18th century.
Often worn as a wedding or betrothal ring, the poesy rings may also have been given as gifts of friendship, love, or to mark important occasions. The verses were usually taken from poems or well-known mottoes of the time, but some verses may have been personal messages invented by the buyer. Many of the poesy rings are thought to be engraved with stock phrases by the jeweller, and books may have existed which provided verses.
The language and the style of the engraving can often help to date the poesy ring. Early examples were usually written in Latin. Many were also written in French, the language of courtly love. Both languages would have been known and understood by the upper classes in Medieval Europe. From the 15th century, this changed in England, and the verses were often written in English.
The verses can be found engraved on both the inside and outside of the band rings. Early medieval rings can be found with the inscription around the outside of the band. Later examples tend to have the verse engraved on the inside of the ring, where only the wearer can see it. The text was usually enamelled in black so that the verse was easier to read, although few rings have survived with this enamelling intact.
Many examples of gold poesy rings can be found in both the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Today, silver and gold poesy rings are making a comeback. Wedding rings are often found with personal messages engraved on the inside of the band, but now we are also seeing rings with messages and mottoes inscribed on the outside. These range from single words such as 'Peace' or 'Love', to longer lines such as 'Mon Coeur Est a Vous', a message of love which translates as, 'My Heart Is Yours'. These poesy rings make a thoughtful and romantic silver jewellery gift for a loved one, and will be cherished forever!
Visit Oishii Jewellery for silver poesy rings.
