Sarah Coventry - Vintage Gold Plated Simulated Jade Bypass Ring (VR1054)

Sarah Coventry - Vintage Gold Plated Simulated Jade Bypass Ring. This attractive ring is crafted from gold plate over metal, signed S.C. for Sarah Coventry. The ring features two simulated oval Jade cabochons, vintage era styling, and quality craftsmanship. This ring is set with beautiful simulated green jade gemstones. The lovely gems are set in a bypass design, which leads down to a polished band, this allows for a comfortable fit. This vintage era ring looks very pretty when worn, truly a perfect addition to any vintage costume jewelry collection. 

History: The history of simulated jade is ancient, originating in China where materials like glass were made to imitate real jade as early as the Warring States period and continuing though the Qing Dynasty. This practice was driven by a variety of factors, including the scarcity of natural jade and the desire to create objects with a similar aesthetic for both religious and status purposes. Today, simulated jade includes modern glass imitations as well as other natural materials like serpentine, and is distinguished from real jade through scientific analysis. 

The technology behind gold plated jewelry is credited to Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1805, he discovered the process for electroplating. It was quickly adopted for jewelry styles, with many Victorian jewelry pieces using gold plating.

Sarah Coventry jewelry was named after the granddaughter of Lyman K. Stuart, the founder of the company. Established in 1949, thousands of women and some men were recruited to sell jewelry at Sarah Coventry home jewelry parties. It is recognized as the oldest direct selling jewelry company in the world.

Jewelry production stopped in the early 1980s, only to begin again in the early 2000s. Early Sarah Coventry jewelry was marked “Coventry”. Other marks used were “Sarah Coventry”, “SC”, “Sarah”, “Sarah Cov”, and “SAC”.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 12.00 mm x 9.50 mm 

Stone Size: Jade (Simulated) 6.00 mm x 4.00 mm   

Weight: 2.10 grams 

Ring Size: 5 1/4   Note: Can not be sized 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America, New York, Rhode Island 

Date: Circa 1970