Kelly Clarkson won an auction for a ring once owned by author Jane Austen, but the singer will not be able to take it out of the U.K. after the British government caught heard of her plans.
Last year, Clarkson won the gold and turquoise ring for $228,000 ( £152,450), according to the Los Angeles Times. It was the first time the ring was set to leave the Austen family, since they had owned it since the Pride & Prejudice writer died and left it to her sister in her will.
The British government heard that Clarkson was ready to have the ring taken out of the U.K. and extended the export bar on the ring until Sept. 30. They would rather see a British owner come forward to keep the national treasure in Austen’s native country.
“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,” culture minister Ed Vaizey said, reports The BBC.
Clarkson will be able to take home the ring if no British buyer or institution expresses interest by Sept. 30. But, the BBC notes that if a buyer comes up with proof of “a serious intention to raise funds,” the deadline could be extended to Dec. 30.
The “Stronger” singer must be a big fan of Austen’s work. She also bought a first edition of Persuasion at the same Sotheby’s sale.
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