Antique Georgian ring. 18k gold, silver and diamonds. Made 18th century or earlier. Bought in France. Suitable as an engagement ring.
Measurements:
Weight is 3.3 grams. US size 6.
Description :
Ring in the Renaissance / Medieval style dating to the Georgian era or before.
The bezel in 3 sections: the raised center with a table cut diamond held in a silver collet, ridged projections on each side and with a double border of scallops and beads. This above a gold fluted urn, typical of the Georgian era. The center of the 'urn' is open, which allows light to enter from behind the diamond.
On either side of the central diamond is a similar, but simpler structure, on a lower level. Both hold a rose cut diamond mounted in silver with a beaded bottom border.
In all cases, typical of antique jewelry, diamonds were set in silver, mounted over gold. This was believed to display diamonds to more impressive effect in candle or gas light.
The rose cut diamonds lie above golden scrolls that float in an openwork design, one the inverse of the other. They lead to the shoulders and sides of the shank/hoop, with scrolls, X-shapes and symbolic fire torches. The design extends well below the sides of the fingers. Only the very back of the shank is a looped band - like a ribbon that folds back on itself.
The scrolling gold work hints at a possible mid 1700's period (Rococo influence).
This ring is very versatile. It would make a great engagement ring. It looks wonderful on the finger and can be worn alone or stacked with other rings.
Marks and Metal:
No marks found. Gold was tested as at least 18k.
Since this ring is very early and has no hallmarks, it's not definitively French or made elsewhere.
Condition:
Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Band is still secure. No signs of restorations or alterations. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
During the 18th century and before, sources of diamonds were limited to a dying supply from India and those found post 1720 in Brazil.
Stones were hand cut, so each one is unique. Technology was limited and diamond-cutting was in its infancy, so we find flat table cuts and at best, the new rose cuts.
The style of the ring is closely aligned to Medieval and Renaissance jewelry. We find similar rings made in Paris, London and other centers of Europe. Very few hallmarks existed at the time, so there is no way of knowing the origin for certain. The quality of this ring hints at Paris, which is where it was bought.
Due to the scarcity of materials (gold and diamonds), rings like this were only made for the mega wealthy, which in those days, meant the aristocracy or royalty. We can be sure that the ring originally belonged to someone important. It was passed down and cared for during the ages, through many generations of women who wore it, enjoyed it and most importantly, looked after it so that it has come down to us as wearable today as it was over 200 years later.
The age, condition, history and beautiful versatile design make this a rare and highly desirable ring.
