The Mystery of The Sterling Ring Box

I remember as a young girl watching my grandmother comb her long white hair with a sterling silver brush and twirling up it into the most perfect oval bun. For the life of me, I still to this day do not know how she got it perfect every time. She tried to show me multiple times how to do it, but mine never looked like hers.

As I would sit and admire all of the lovely things she had in her bedroom, one thing always caught my eye, her sterling silver ring box. It was just beautiful. When my grandfather proposed in 1944 her engagement ring came in this perfect little box. Today, my mom wears her ring on her right hand, and I always think about the box every time I see it.

The sterling ring box (this site has the best information but does not frequently sell antique ring boxes) dates back to 1880′s through the 1960′s.

Some sterling ring boxes look Victorian and some look Art Deco, but who is to say what the influence for them was at the time of creation. Their luscious velvet of various rich colors and the sleek satin reveal the quality of the time and hopefully the jewelers name. Great means were taken to make them desirable and desirable they still are today.

The first time one sees a ring box, it’s the shape that peaks ones interest. Round, square, bell and rectangular shapes are the most commonly found. This leaves the greatly desired oval, heart and hexagonal shapes.

Ring boxes usually bear a company name and/or makers mark. While not all are marked with a makers mark, most are marked “sterling”. Some antique ring boxes even offer an unidentifiable mark. Retailers of jewelry or novelties often have their store name on the lid satin.

Sterling Ring Boxes were dearly beloved by someone special. Proof of this is an extravagant vintage monogram or extensive engine turning, leaving an oval or round cartouche for the owners initials.

These boxes have been tucked away and are now making their second debut. While they are precious, beautiful, and intriguing, mysterious describes the boxes best. Were they given as premiums with a purchase? What’s the story? Who once possessed them? Where did he buy it? Did she say “yes”?

Sterling ring boxes come in all shapes and sizes. Typically their condition when found is fantastic, considering their age, and because of their great condition, one has to assume they were as prized a possession as the ring presented.

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled when you are antiquing, you never know what you will find.

Smile,
Ashley