What is a regard ring?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A regard ring is a form of acrostic jewellery where the first letter of each gemstone in the ring spells out the word REGARD: Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond. Like the DEAREST ring, it was a popular gift in the Georgian and Victorian eras as a sentimental token of affection between friends, lovers or family members. The stones sit in a simple band in order, often in closed settings, and the hidden message was the entire point of the gift. Regard rings are collectable antique pieces today.
Frequently asked questions
- What gemstones spell REGARD?
- REGARD is spelled by Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond, set in that sequence along the ring. The first letter of each stone's name builds up the word, which is the entire acrostic game.
- How is a regard ring different from a DEAREST ring?
- Both are acrostic rings using gemstone initials to spell a hidden word. A DEAREST ring uses Diamond, Emerald, Amethyst, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire and Topaz to spell dearest, while a regard ring uses its own stone sequence to spell regard. Both were popular in the Victorian era.
- When were regard rings most fashionable?
- They were particularly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods, roughly the late 1700s through the 1800s, when sentimental jewellery carrying secret messages was very fashionable. Antique regard rings are now sought after by collectors.
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