For my sake weare this

A buttery high carat gold posy hoop, circa 1700. The ring is inscribed to interior in italic script : For my sake weare this with an unidentified maker’s mark. The archaic spelling is delightfully irregular. Posy rings derive their name from the word ‘posy’ or ‘poesy’ – a derivative of poetry meaning short rhyme. The rings were popular from the late medieval period onwards and were primarily used to communicate secret messages of love between the donor and the recipient. The wearing of words against the skin was believed to increase their efficacy. This posy ring is size I [US 4 and 1/4], undamaged and sturdy enough for everyday wear.

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