Is It A Find?

Hi Dan, I found this ring while cleaning out my Aunt's estate. It was at the bottom of an old trunk along with some old photographs and letters. It appears to be made out of glass? Which I find odd and somewhat dangerous. There is a small gold insert on the front. I have never seen anything like it and I can't find any examples like it on the internet. I was hoping you could help me identify what exactly it is made from and if it has any value. Thank you, Kate P. Hello Kate, The ring you have presented is made from a gemstone called jet. Jet is formed by decaying wood that is over a million years old and is under immense pressure caused by the weight of the earth above. It also is a precursor to coal. I have never seen a ring carved from jet, it is quite unique. It dates to the 19th century and was meant to be worn as piece of mourning jewelry. The gold insert could have been used by the owner as a place to engrave the initials of the deceased in which the ring would be worn in remembrance of. Victorian jewelry is still very popular and being that this piece is very rare I could see it selling for upwards of $200. Thank you for presenting me with something I have never seen before. I look forward to any other questions you may have.