The maker is in fact Australian. This is the hallmark of Willis & Co established in Melbourne in the late 1800's early 1900's. The unicorn on the left hand side is from the Willis family coat of arms, 9 for 9ct gold & W for Willis. For an example of this hallmark refer to Australian Hallmarks. Great find!
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Horse head?! by: Jill
Is the symbol on the far left a horse head? What does that mean?!
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Irish Country Mark by: Anonymous
Greg, just a thought. The first mark may in fact be the IRELAND Dublin TOWN MARK (Hibernia) ca 1732 to present.
Yvonne
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1854 and GOLD Stamp by: Anonymous
In the UK before 1854 GOLD meant high carat gold - 18 carat gold or better. In the 1854, 15, 12 and 9 carat gold were legally recognized.
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Victorian Ruby Ring by: Anonymous
Hi Greg thank you for your question. Apologies for not getting back to you sooner, I have just now seen your question.
I'm curious to know what makes you think it's middle-eastern? Unfortunately I cannot clearly see the first mark even when I zoom in (from this side). Can you see what it is using a magnifying glass or better still a jewelers loupe (pronounced LOOP)?
The number 9 will stand for 9 carat gold.
The W letter looks like the trademark for GEORGE WATERHOUSE & Co DUBLIN, IRELAND -ca 1830s - 1850s.
This style of ring, in particular set with rubies in star burst fashion was popular in the Victorian period during the 1830s- 1840s.
