A stunning antique wedding band dating to the Edwardian era (1901-1915). The ring is engraved with an orange blossom motif spanning its entire circumference, symbolic of purity, virtue and innocence. Fashioned in 18ct white gold, the band has a thin profile and sharp edges, making it perfect for stacking or for wear as a wedding ring as it was originally intended.
The ring has an interesting provenance. It has a maker’s mark for ‘Belais’, one of the early manufacturers of white gold jewelry in the United States. Around the turn of the century, jeweller David Belais experimented with various alloys for white gold as a substitute for platinum, which he presented to the trade in 1917. The advertising campaign for Belais white gold was so successful that the term 'Belais' became synonymous with white gold. As testament to their success, many prominent jewelers of the time listed in their advertisements the enticement that they sold ’18k Belais.’
As an interesting aside, David Belais may be better known for his efforts on behalf of animals as the founder in 1904 of the Humane Society of New York. He served without pay as its President until his death. In 1929, he was also instrumental in establishing the first free animal clinic at the Humane Society headquarters.
Size: J ½ (US 5.25). Not resizable due to pattern on band.
Stamped 18k, maker's mark 'BELAIS'.
Width: approximately 1.75mm.
Weight: 1.6g
Condition: Good condition with wear commensurate with age. Band is round, stamps and are crisp. The design to the exterior of the band has some rubbing.
Layaway/laybuy is available - please see 'Layaway/Laybuy Plans' in the Quick Links on the home page or email onyxandelm@outlook.com
**US CUSTOMERS PLEASE NOTE** - a tariff of 11% applies to orders with a value of less than US$800, and is included in the total automatically at checkout. This is a tariff collected by the US government following the removal of the de minimis exemption.