Berkshire Fleur-de-lis Band

Crafted for the Present:

• Museum-Quality Historical Reproduction: An exact 1:1 historical reproduction cast from the original British find, preserving its surviving form and stamped detail.
• Individually Hand-Cast in Leeds: Individually hand-cast, sized and finished at our Leeds Corn Exchange workshop.
• Approved and Hallmarked: Approved and hallmarked by the London Assay Office in the precious metal selected.

The History of the Find:

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

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 eye-like motifs. In the medieval world, the fleur-de-lis carried several associations, including purity, the Virgin Mary and French royal influence in English heraldry.

The combination of the floral motif with circular pellets is thought to have had more than a purely decorative purpose and may have been understood as protective or apotropaic. By the 15th century, patterned bands of this kind were increasingly accessible beyond the highest ranks of society, including prosperous merchant communities. The flat profile and repeated stamped decoration also reflect the practical way striking ornament could be created across the full circumference of a ring.

The Find:

Discovered by a metal detectorist in Berkshire, the original artefact survives as a complete hoop. The raised edges of the fleur-de-lis have been softened by wear and centuries in the ground, while the recessed stamped detail remains visible beneath its dark patina.

Weight by Metal (approximate, varies by ring size):

• Sterling Silver (925): 2.7g
• 9ct Gold: 2.9g
• 18ct Gold: 4.0g
• Platinum: 5.4g