Retro Elegance - Vintage 14K White Gold Natural 'Color Change' Alexandrite & Diamond Ring (VR928)

Retro Elegance - Vintage 14K White Gold Natural 'Color Change' Alexandrite & Diamond Ring. This gorgeous ring is crafted from 14K white gold, hallmarked 14K.  The ring features one natural oval cut faceted alexandrite, 15 natural round single cut diamonds, vintage retro styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring reminds me of the beautiful paste shoe buckles, which were made in the 18th century, with a modernistic twist. The face of the ring is expertly claw-set with a beautiful teal green alexandrite, which has a color change to red in different light intensities. The rare alexandrite is surrounded by a sea of sparking clear white diamonds, which enhances the alexandrite perfectly. The shoulders and the shank showcase a textured finish (a characteristic often seen in retro jewelry). This unique and artistic ring would make a wonderful addition to any fine jewelry collection. 

Comments: So couture and elegant. 

Note: Appraisal included with the ring. Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of vintage and antique jewelry. 

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.

Alexandrite is an extremely rare gemstone, and fairly new compared to many other gems.  It does not share the ancient history and lore of most other gemstones due to the fact that it was first discovered in the 19th century. The name Alexandrite comes from the fact that the gemstone was first discovered in the emerald mines near the Tokovaya River in Russia's Ural Mountains in 1830, on the day of Prince Alexander ll of Russia's birthday. The story told, was that emerald miners found the alexandrite thinking that the stones were emeralds since they were green. The gems turned red by the campfire light and then green again in the morning, they then realized that they had found a new mysterious gem. 

When the gems were thought to be headed to extinction, even larger deposits were found in Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, the island south of India. Later on, Brazil became another contributor to the world supply of the stone. 

Since the discovery of alexandrite, the gem has been thought to bring good luck, good fortune and love. It is believed to bring balance in the interaction between the physical manifest world and the unmanifest spiritual, or astral world. It opens the crown chakra, bringing one access to the warm, healing energy and love of the universe. It also strengthens intuition,creativity, and imagination. Alexandrite encourages romance, It is also said that through the stone, joy enters the lives of people with to much discipline. The stone reminds us of our purpose in life and our origin. It gives hope to those who are in despair about their lives. It brings strength and constantly reminds them of the light, With it's changing colour, it is a reminder that life is not only what it seems to be. 

Many alexandrite are said to aid physical ailments. They are recommended for those recovering from surgery or prolonged illness.  They are also know to be useful for ones emotional well being. 

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.

White gold is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. At that time, jewelers were looking for a way to create a metal that had the appearance of platinum but was more affordable. They experimented with various alloys, including mixing gold with nickel, silver, and palladium.

Alexandrite is rated excellent for everyday wear, however one must still use caution and protect from harsh chemicals, extreme temperature and scratches. The best way to clean alexandrite is with a mild dish soap and warm water, using a soft toothbrush. 

Measurements: Face of Ring 15.00 mm x 13.00 mm 

Stone Size: Alexandrite .20 carat   Diamonds .30 carats

Weight: 4.80 grams

Ring Size: 7 

Condition: Excellent   

Origin: America     

Date: Circa 1960