Color Symphony - Victorian English 14K Gold Australian Opal & 'Old Mine Cut' Diamond Ring (VICR170)

Color Symphony - Victorian English 14K Gold Australian Opal & 'Old Mine Cut' Diamond Ring (VICR170)

$1,995.00

← Previous Product Next Product →

Color Symphony - Victorian English 14K Gold Australian Opal & Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring. This antique ring is crafted from 14K yellow and white gold, tested and confirmed. The ring features one natural oval cut Australian opal, 2 natural old mine cut diamonds, Victorian era styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this exquisite ring is expertly claw-set with a beautiful Australian opal displaying flashes of color in different light intensities. The precious opal is enhanced by glowing antique old mine cut diamonds, which add a wonderful sparkle to the ring. The shoulders and the shank is smooth and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This Victorian era ring is truly a piece to be cherished and enjoyed for many years to come.

Note: Appraisal included with the ring. Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of 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.

Originating in the early 18th century, old mine cut diamonds boast a distinct charm, characterized by a high crown, small table, and large culet. Their larger facets reflect 19th-century technology, setting them apart from modern cut diamonds.

Old Mine Cut diamonds date back to about 200 years ago. Individual cutters would shape rough diamonds by hand, because motorized cutting tools and lasers were not yet invented. This resulted in one of a kind “imperfect” diamond cuts that were carefully proportioned to be as brilliant as possible.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Opal was first mined in Virgin Valley, North America, over 10,000 years ago and used in artefacts in Kenya 6 thousand years ago. Additionally history also suggests that the Aztecs were mining opal in South and Central America around the same time.

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.

Opal was first mined commercially at Listowel Downs in Queensland in 1875 and later at White Cliffs in NSW. Today, Coober Pedy (SA) is the main producer of white opal, though in recent years this field has expanded and all types of opals are found. Other centres in SA include Andamooka and Mintabe.

The stone is said to help stimulate originality and dynamic creativity, encouraging an interest in the arts and one's self-expression. Because the Precious Gemstone is so reflective with its play of color, it also symbolizes the expansion of the mind, growing not only creatively but with empathy as well.

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.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 15.50 mm x 8.00 mm

Stone Size: Australian Opal .62 carats Diamonds (Old Mine Cut) .46 carats

Weight: 1.80 grams

Ring Size: 5

Condition: Excellent

Origin: England

Date: Circa 1890