Geometric Art - Art Deco 18K White Gold Old Mine Cut Diamond & Sapphire Shield Ring (ADR246)

Geometric Art - Art Deco White Gold Old Mine Cut Diamond & Sapphire Shield Ring. This exquisite ring is crafted from 18K white gold, hallmarked 18K and confirmed. The ring features one natural old mine cut diamond, two synthetic round cut faceted sapphires, two synthetic baguette sapphires, Art Deco styling, and high quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring is expertly set with a glowing old mine cut diamond, which is flanked by a Kashmir(royal) blue baguette on each side, and two large Kashmir (royal) blue sapphires. The sapphires display an intense royal blue color , and are synthetic (A characteristic of Art Deco Jewelry). The beautiful gems are surrounded by a sea of exquisite pierce-work decoration. These gemstones are all original to the piece. The shank is smooth and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This ring looks stunning when worn, a very special ring indeed to be cherished for many years to come. 

Note: Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the antique value of a ring. 

History: The earliest diamonds were found in India in 4th century BC, although the youngest of these deposits were formed 900 million years ago. A majority of these early stones were transported along the network of trade routes that connected India and China, commonly known as the Silk Road.

Old mine cut diamonds were incredibly popular from the early 18th century until the end of the 19th century. It was the most popular cut until the old European cut became more popular, as it was the stepping stone to the brilliant diamonds we know today.

The celestial blue color of this gemstone symbolized heaven and attracted divine favor and wise judgment. Greeks wore sapphire for guidance when seeking answers from the oracle. Buddhists believed that it brought spiritual enlightenment, and Hindus used it during worship.

The first synthetic sapphire was successfully made in 1873 by the flux method. This was followed shortly by the flame fusion method in 1902. Needless to say, at the turn of the century synthetic gemstones were quickly rising in popularity.

Synthetic sapphires in particular are very common in Art Deco jewelry, primarily as accent stones. Another manmade material popular at this time was camphor glass, a kind of glass treated with acid to achieve a frosted finish, which was set into filigree jewelry and often accented with a diamond.

With advances in pearl farming, cultured pearls were produced in abundance and pearls became the iconic gem of the 1920s. Synthetics, including very fine synthetic rubies and sapphires, became widely available. Synthetic stones were used for their flawless clarity and color consistency.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 24.50 mm x 18.50 mm 

Stone Size: Diamond (Old Mine Cut) .25 carats    Sapphire 2.20 carats 

Weight: 5.30 grams 

Ring size: 7 1/2 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1915