On This Day In 1911 - Edwardian English 18K Gold 'Old Mine Cut' Natural Diamond Cluster Ring (EDR079)

On This Day In 1911 - Edwardian English 18K Gold 'Old Mine Cut' Natural Diamond Cluster Ring.  This exquisite ring is crafted from 18K yellow, hallmarked 18 for 18K, England, Chester assays, date letter L for 1911, and a makers mark C.X.  Featuring one natural 'old mine cut' central diamond, 8 natural 'old mine cut' diamonds, Edwardian era styling, and quality craftsmanship. This beautiful ring exhibits a pierced gallery resembling a coronet. The face and head of the gallery is crafted in buttery yellow  gold, with pavé set diamonds. The central gem is an old mine cut diamond and the diamond surround are old mine cuts, which glow beautifully. These rare hand-cut diamonds display a beautiful soft glow as appose to modern cut diamonds, which exhibit a more blinding brilliance. The diamonds are exposed to the back of the ring, for additional shine when the lights shines through. Open-backed settings were  discovered during the Victorian era rather than the earlier closed back examples. The shoulders are decorated with engravings, adding a touch of detail to the band. The bottom part of the shank is polished and smooth, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing.  This rare Edwardian era ring would make a perfect and unique engagement ring, gift or addition to any fine jewelry collection. 

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

You cannot look at antique cut diamond jewelry factually with a recut formula in mind, its value is object driven.  They are a greater challenge in estimating weight once they have been mounted (especially if they are closed back). The Old Mine Cut diamonds are hand cut, which makes them so special . This is a rare find since it has its full harks, exceptional condition, made in Chester (less jewelry was made in Chester because the assay office closed in 1962), and beautiful old mine cut diamonds. Wonderful rare example. 

In 1953, GIA formally created its diamond grading system, known as the 4 C's. The 4 Cs of diamond quality are the universally recognized diamond grading system still to be used today.  1n 1955, GIA presented its first diamond grading reports, which became the hallmark of grading reports in the diamond industry. Before this time in antiquity clients did not care about diamond grading. It was based more so on the size of the diamonds ( according to budget) , style, and sentiment.  This ring is a wonderful example of the Victorian era, just beautiful! 

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 Edwardian era corresponds to the reign of King Edward VII in Great Britain, whose short-lived governance (1901-1910) followed Victoria's long reign and preceded the modern House of Windsor in England. The "Edwardian" style broadly encompasses the years of 1901 through to 1919.

Measurements: Face of Ring 7.00 mm  x 7.00 mm 

Stone Size: Diamond (Old Mine Cut Diamonds) .20 carats (approximately) 

Weight: 1.73 grams 

Ring Size: 6 1/2

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England, Chester 

Date: Dated 1911  (Letter Date L)