Early 20th Century Carnelian Intaglio 'Friendship' Signet Seal Ring

This 1920s 18ct Chester gold carnelian intaglio seal ring captures a sentiment of timeless tenderness and quiet devotion. The honeyed glow of the carnelian, warm as a setting sun, holds within it a delicately engraved motif: a bird carrying a sprig of foliage, encircled by the word “LAMITIÉ” (read correctly when pressed in wax - the French word for friendship.

In the aftermath of the First World War, as the 1920s dawned, symbols such as these carried profound emotional resonance. The bird, often a dove or songbird, was a herald of peace, renewal, and enduring affection; the foliage it bears, perhaps olive or laurel, spoke of reconciliation, victory of the spirit, and hope revived. Together with 'L’Amitié,' this imagery suggests not mere friendship, but true peace and contentment. 

Set in lustrous 18ct yellow gold, the smooth, understated mount allows the signet’s symbolism to speak with quiet eloquence. Such a piece might have been exchanged between dear friends or lovers as an emblem of steadfastness and mutual understanding in an uncertain and ever-changing world. It may also have been used as a stamp, pressed into wax to seal a letter and remind the recipient of enduring friendship. 
 
 
“Friendship is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world.” 
 
~ John Evelyn