moonandwomb:

17th c. posy ring bearing the inscription, “I long to have but blush to crave.”

“Posy rings, their name deriving from the term poesie or poetry, are rings with mottoes or inscriptions on a plain gold band, either in prose or verse. They were customarily exchanged between friends, relatives and lovers, and at betrothals and wedding ceremonies. The secret message was concealed inside the hoop and its content only known to the wearer and giver; it was believed that the ring’s closeness to the skin increased the emotional impact of the inscription. Here the message is poignantly strengthened by the hands holding a heart on the exterior of the band.” – Les Enluminures