Another family piece belonging to my great uncle who was born in the late 19th century and died in 1978. My aunt believes he became a Mason in the 1940s but the research I've done on Clark and Coombs marks seems to conflict this. I'm leaning toward an earlier date but the Clark and Coombs mark history seems sketchy. I've seen two versions but cannot define the time period for each. The band on the ring is warped more than likely as a result my great uncle's work in tool and die. I also did not realize the face of the ring was so dirty until I saw the pics. (I'm guessing I need to invest in a new pair of glasses.)
I think that the orientation of the & sign might be a good indication of the age. The Mark in the Link that Sarah posted has the position that seems like how current use is. The Mark on the Trademark Site has it almost sideways which to me is earlier. It is hard to see which way the & sign is in this Ring's Mark. Also, the fine pitting to the finish on your Ring seems to point to earlier construction techniques. Maybe first half 20th Century?
The mark is so worn on this ring it took me quite a bit to see the “c” in the triangle on the right. The other “c” is indistinguishable from the pitting. They appear to be lower case. I cannot make out the entire ampersand due to wear. My aunt thinks her father more than likely got the ring when he first became a Mason in the 1940s. Would this fit with the construction?
I have found some Ladies jewelry with similar wear that when I researched dated to around that time period. I am not really good with Men's Rings though.
It is the matte finish (plating?) over the Sterling that seems to degrade.
Even if you cant date the ring since you dont know if he bought new or used, you can possibly date his Mason status and date of induction. You can contact the local lodge and ask and/or contact the Grand Lodge with full name and date of birth. His membership may also qualify you as eligible to join the Eastern Star.
