My mother has a ring that belonged to her grandfather. It dates from 1900 or so (I do not have the exact date) and looks to be a ring for a 32nd-degree Mason. While we know what the gold and diamond value of the ring is, I suspect it to be far more valuable than that, particularly to a Mason who would treasure such an object.
Does anyone know of a legitimate contact I can make with someone who can appraise this item for her (besides the average corner jeweler)?
Thank you!
2006-09-19 14:20:18 · 3 answers · asked by MrPink 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
Good answers so far. I'd like to keep the question open for a bit longer. Some have suggested that we keep the ring and possibly pass it on to other family members who are Masons- however, there are no more in our family and have been none for generations.
2006-09-26 04:01:01 · update #1
Yes pass it down. YOu can get an idea on ebay as they are ocmmon place. It should hold more than financial value to you.
2006-09-23 08:17:28 · answer #1 · answered by Double Bubble 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The thing is, those of us who are 32nd degree Freemasons would just go to a jeweler to purchase jewelry such as this. Some jewelers specialize in Masonic jewelry more than others, so your best bet would be to go to a jeweler that sells Masonic jewelry and see what they are selling new rings of similar quality for. Then you might be able to add some value for age, but I'm not sure that there would be any sentimental value for the ring for anyone who is not related to your grandfather.
Check online for Masonic jewelers and try to email them and get an opinion, but like I said, it would only have extra value for a relative or perhaps a close friend or relative.
Any adult man who believes in God and has good moral character can become a Mason, so perhaps you have a son, nephew, or grandson to whom you could give this ring. If it sparks his interest to follow in the footsteps of his ancesters, he can join simply by asking your local lodge. It is best to keep it in the family until someone joins Freemasonry and pass it on at that time.
2006-09-20 07:16:51 · answer #2 · answered by maboot24 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My suggestion is keep it. If your sons or relative joins the fraternity it will mean more to them! I did not receive my grandfathers ring because of a similar scenario. Good luck
2006-09-21 11:39:01 · answer #3 · answered by Dan 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋