History & Workshop Journal

How to Choose Celtic, Roman, Viking or Medieval Jewellery

A practical guide to choosing historical jewellery by metal, period and jewellery type, from silver Celtic bangles to gold medieval signet rings.

Discover how medieval signet rings were used, what their engraved marks may have meant, and how genuine British finds become wearable reproductions.

Compare sterling silver, 9ct gold, 18ct gold and platinum to choose the right metal for your historical ring, earrings, bangle or pendant.

Discover how an exact reproduction of a genuine British jewellery find can become a distinctive silver, gold or platinum engagement ring.

See how genuine British finds are pressed into casting sand and reproduced in solid silver, gold and platinum at our Leeds jewellery workshop.

Explore Roman signet rings found in Britain, from scored and ring-and-dot bezels to engraved intaglios and figured designs.

Explore Celtic currency rings, ring-money and penannular bangles, including what these open-ended forms may have been used for.

Explore Viking band rings and twisted arm-rings found in Britain, including scored decoration, precious metals and their possible uses.

Learn how to clean, wear and store silver, gold and gem-set historical jewellery while protecting its finish and original surface detail.

Learn what a UK jewellery hallmark means, including sponsor, fineness and Assay Office marks and the legal weight exemptions for precious metals.