Glittering Buttercup - Victorian 14K Rose Gold 'Old Mine Cut' Diamond Belcher Ring (VICR168)

Glittering Buttercup - Victorian 14K Rose Gold 'Old Mine Cut' Diamond Belcher Ring.  This rare ring is crafted from 14K rose gold, tested and confirmed.  This antique ring features one natural Old Mine Cut diamond, Victorian styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring is know as a buttercup belcher setting, which showcases a beautiful glowing hand-cut diamond.  There are numerous claws on this setting, which securely holds the diamond in place with a wonderful smooth finish.  The ring is dainty, yet still substantial. The shank is smooth and polished , which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This Victorian era ring would make a unique engagement ring or a wonderful rare addition to any antique jewelry collection. 

Note: Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of antique jewelry.  It is highly recommended that this Victorian 14K rose gold .28 carat old mine cut cushion diamond ring be insured for the amount of $2800.00 (Tax Excluded) 

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.

The Old Mine Cut is a historic diamond cut that was the most common diamond cut from the early 18th century to the late 19th century, which corresponds to the Georgian and Victorian era. During the height of the popularity of this engagement ring cut, diamonds were cut by hand and their measurements were eyeballed.

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.

Rose gold was first used in early 19th century Russia by the famed jeweler Carl Faberge in his famous Faberge Eggs, as was known as Russian Gold. Rose gold later gained popularity in the United States during the lavish and feminine 1920's, and was worn in engagement rings and fine jewelry.

The buttercup setting dates back to Victorian times. A variation of the prong setting, its prongs emerge from the mounting as u-shaped scallops. The effect epitomizes the floral fascination of the Victorian era. Jewelry historians also refer to this setting as the Belcher setting.

A belcher ring has a flush setting, similar to a gypsy ring, whereby the prongs are cut into the mounting. The stone is placed within a recess created in the shank and secured by the carved-out prongs.

In the history of the United Kingdom and the British Empire, the Victorian era was the reign of Queen Victoria, from 20 June 1837 until her death on 22 January 1901. Slightly different definitions are sometimes used. 

Measurements: Face of the Ring 10.50 mm x 9.00 mm 

Stone Size: Diamond (Old Mine Cut Cushion) .28 carats    Clarity SI1   Color I 

Weight: 4.75 grams    Note: This example has a wonderful rare substantial weight. These type of rings are most often found to be quite light weight. 

Ring Size: 5 3/4 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England 

Date: Circa 1880