Purple Allure - Vintage English 9K Gold Natural Amethyst & Diamond Cluster Ring (VR1162)

Purple Allure - Estate English 9K Gold Natural Amethyst & Diamond Cluster Ring. This gorgeous ring is crafted from 9K yellow and white gold, hallmarked 375 (British Hallmark), Birmingham, a makers mark GJ,  and a letter date O for 1988. The ring features one natural oval cut amethyst, 12 natural single cut diamonds, classic styling and quality craftsmanship. This gallery on this ring boasts an expertly claw-set beautiful purple amethyst, displaying a purplish/violet hue. The amethyst gemstone, has a wonderful sparkling diamond halo, which enhances the amethyst perfectly. The shoulders exhibit a slight taper, which leads down to a solid smooth and polished shank. The solid shank, allows for easy sizing, and a comfortable fit.  This vintage ring would make a unique engagement ring, or gift for that special someone. 

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

History: Amethyst jewelry has been found and dated as early as 2000 BC. Some historical accounts say that Saint Valentine had an amethyst ring carved with an image of Cupid. For those familiar with Old Testament history, amethyst was one of the twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel.

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.

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.

Although the origin of white color gold dates back to 1710, where it was discovered by two alchemists in Germany, it wasn't used widely until much later. White gold as we know it today was really popularised in the 1920s. Although it might seem strange, this luxury material came to popularity in wartime.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 11.50 mm x 10.50 mm 

Stone Size: Amethyst .75 carats Diamonds .08 carats 

Weight: 1.92  grams 

Ring Size: 5 1/2 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England, Birmingham

Date: Letter date for 1988