Intaglios - images or words carved into stone - were very popular in the early 19th century. They were decoratively worn on rings and watch fobs, but also served as a signature seal on letters and legal documents. The advent of the postage stamp in 1840 virtually eliminated the need for the wax seal, so the necessity and popularity of the intaglio began to wane. This piece was likely converted from a seal fob into a ring (not by us), the white tassie (aka glass) seal features the words “Bon Soir” arced over a lit candle that is about to be snuffed out.