Jane Austen's turquoise ring stays where it belongs

A ring once belonging to author Jane Austen and recently purchased by American singer Kelly Clarkson will remain in the UK following a successful bid to keep it in the country.

Last year the turquoise and gold ring was bought by Kelly for more than £150,000 (NZ$300,000). She outbid the Jane Austen’s House Museum in Hampshire. 

An export ban was then placed on the ring, which expired on 30 September.  Alternative buyers were asked to match the price set by Clarkson. After worldwide donations, including one from the Jane Austen Society of Australia, enough money was raised and an offer has been accepted that will give the museum ownership of the ring.

According to the BBC, Clarkson responded to the news by saying: "The ring is a beautiful national treasure and I am happy to know that so many Jane Austen fans will get to see it at Jane Austen's House Museum."

The museum already has a turquoise bracelet and a topaz cross once owned by the writer. 

(exert from an item in Jeweller Magazine)