Alternative buyers are asked to step forward and match the price Clarkson paid for the ring
Pop star in jewellery battle
Posted August 06, 2013 | By Emily Mobbs • Former Editor
The UK Government has attempted to stop American singer Kelly Clarkson
from taking a ring, once owned by author Jane Austen, out of the
country.
According to BBC News, the inaugural American Idol winner purchased the turquoise and gold ring at an auction last year for more than £150,000 (A$259,000). But the government, in an attempt to keep the jewellery item in the UK, has now placed a temporary export ban on the piece.
Culture Minister Ed Vaizey has reportedly asked for alternative buyers to step forward and match the price set by Clarkson. They will have until Monday 30 September to make an offer.
The ring is believed to be one of only three jewellery pieces owned by the 19th century author. Minister Vaizey said he wanted the “national treasure” to be “saved for the nation”, the BBC reported.
The ring comes with papers documenting its history, which is said to have remained in the Austen family until Clarkson purchased the item.
According to the BBC report, if a UK institution or private buyer did not come forward by the 30 September deadline then the export licence for the ring would be granted. The deadline could be extended, however, to Monday 30 December if proof had emerged of "a serious intention to raise funds" to match the six-figure price tag.
"Jane Austen's modest lifestyle and her early death mean that objects associated with her of any kind are extremely rare, so I hope that a UK buyer comes forward so this simple but elegant ring can be saved for the nation," Minister Vaizey said.
Clarkson became engaged last year and rumours have emerged that she wanted to wear the piece as her engagement ring.
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