A buckle ring dating to the mid 19th century which hinges open to reveal a shallow channel or locket. Originally, this channel would have held plaited hair. Jewelry that incorporated hair, be it locks or plaits, was the height of romanticism and sentimentality in the Victorian era. Before affordable portrait photography was developed, carrying a lock of hair was one of the most common ways of keeping the physical memory of a living or departed loved one close. The interior of one hinged panel is engraved with the initials “SP.” Dutch hallmark.