On This Day In 1903 - Edwardian 18K Gold Natural Pearl & Opal Ring (EDR067)

On This Day In 1903 - Edwardian 18K Gold Natural Pearl & Opal Ring. This exquisite ring is crafted from 18K gold, hallmarked 18 for 18K, London hallmark, an 'h 'date mark for 1903, and a makers mark R.P. Featuring 3 natural pearls, two natural cabochon opals, Edwardian era styling, and high quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring is expertly set with interspaced lustrous silvery grey pearls, and white opals, which display an array of color in different light intensities. The ring features exquisite and delicate engravings on the shoulders , and a polished smooth band. The Edwardian era ring has its full clear hallmarks, and is in superb condition. Truly a special piece to be cherished for many years to come. 

Note: Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of antique jewelry. It is recommended that this ring is insured for $2000.00 CD (Tax excluded) 

Comments: Antique rings with the original clear assays are becoming more rare. This particular ring has its full hallmarks and a wonderful unusual combination of gemstones. 

History: Pearls were presented as gifts to Chinese royalty as early as 2300 BC, while in ancient Rome, pearl jewellery was considered the ultimate status symbol. So precious were the spherical gems that in the 1st century BC, Julius Caesar passed a law limiting the wearing of pearls only to the ruling classes.

After many, many years of diving for pearls, divers have made natural pearls so rare; some say they are close to becoming extinct. Therefore, they are hard to find on the ocean's surface these days. Because of this rarity, natural pearls are generally much more expensive than cultured pearls.

Many cultures have credited opal with supernatural origins and powers. Arabic legends say it falls from the heavens in flashes of lightning. The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and guarded them from disease. Europeans have long considered the gem a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

n the United Kingdom, the Edwardian era spanned the reign of King Edward VII from 1901 to 1910, and is sometimes extended to the start of the First World War. The death of Queen Victoria in January 1901 marked the end of the Victorian era. 

Measurements: Face of the Ring 16.00 mm x 5.50 mm 

Stone Size: Pearls 3.50 mm - 2.00 mm     Opal .15 carat

Weight: 4.00 grams 

Ring Size: 7

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England, London 

Date: 1903 (Dated)