Antique Signet Ring Initials WEP or WES of 10k Gold intaglio jewelry This lovely orchid brooch dates

This lovely orchid brooch dates to the Art Nouveau era (circa 1910-1920)

and the center plaque measures 1 inch (24mm) by 1

the intricate process involved cut-to-shape pieces of colored stones against a black slate

The piece is in good vintage condition

85 inches wide and are in excellent condition

Antique Signet Ring Initials WEP or WES of 10k Gold intaglio jewelry This lovely orchid brooch datesOriginally very practical in nature, signet or seal rings were designed in reverse and used to place initials or a coat of arms onto paper using wax, clay, or an embossing technique. Once this function was no longer needed, signet rings became entirely ornamental and the design was no longer a reverse mirror image. This antique signet ring (circa 1920) is 10k gold with the initials WEP or WES. The face of the ring measures 0. 7 inches by 0. 55 inches