​The Berkshire Fleur-de-lis Band

Period: 14th – 15th Century (Late Medieval)

​Original Material: Copper Alloy (Bronze)

​Find Location: Berkshire, UK

Style: Flat band with repeating stamped “Fleur-de-lis” and circular motifs

Significance of the Design:

• This ring features a rhythmic, repeating pattern of the Fleur-de-lis (the stylised lily) alternating with circular “pellets” or “eyes.” In the Medieval world, the Fleur-de-lis was a multifaceted symbol representing purity, the Virgin Mary, and royal French influence in English heraldry.

  
  

  The combination of the floral motif with circular pellets suggests this was an apotropaic piece – jewellery intended to provide the wearer with spiritual protection. By the 15th century, these bands were popular among the rising merchant classes in prosperous counties like Berkshire. The flat, wide profile is characteristic of the shift toward more accessible, “industrial” hand-stamping techniques, allowing a wider range of people to wear their faith and status on their hands.

The Find: 

Discovered by a metal detectorist in the historic landscape of Berkshire, the original artifact survives as a complete hoop. The band shows significant “field wear,” where the raised edges of the Fleur-de-lis have been softened by centuries of movement in the soil and years of contact with the original owner’s hand. It retains a stable, dark-brown patina that highlights the recessed details of the ancient stamps.