Recently Sold (VR865)

Portrait Of Opulence - Vintage Sterling Silver Mother Of Pearl, Garnet & Rose Cut Marcasite Cameo Ring. This wonderful ring is crafted from sterling silver hallmarked 925 for sterling. The ring features a genuine carved mother of pearl cameo, two natural round cut garnets, numerous genuine rose cut marcasite, vintage Victorian revival styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring is expertly bezel set with a beautiful white mother of pearl cameo. The cameo is a portrait of a graceful lady with her hair pulled up and elegant clothing. The cameo has a sparkling marcasite surround, and is also adorned by two rich red wine garnets. The ring is substantial and solid, with a polished and smooth shank, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This gorgeous vintage ring looks stunning when worn, truly a piece to be enjoyed for many years to come. 

History: From archaeological evidence, we know that mother of pearl was also used by the Mesopotamians as far back as 2500 BC. It was certainly popular in China during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) – although it had been in use in China much earlier during the Bronze Age of the Shang dynasty (1500-1050 BC). '

The history of garnet dates back to the Bronze Age, more than 5000 years ago. Its name, which has been used since these ancient times, was derived from the Latin word granatium, which means pomegranate (because the small, red crystals were thought to resemble pomegranate seeds).

The name Marcasite in jewellery terms comes from the Arabic word for Pyrite, which is 'Markaschatsa'. Marcasite jewellery has been made since the time of the Incas and the Ancient Greeks. Cleopatra was reported to wear Marcasite in order to preserve her beauty.

The story of silver mining began about 5,000 years ago. Silver was first mined around 3,000 BCE in Anatolia, now located in modern-day Turkey. The precious metal helped early civilizations in the Near East, Ancient Greece to flourish.

The term "sterling silver" probably originated in eastern Germany when five towns formed the Hanseatic League in the 1100s. These town minted their own coins of 92.5 percent silver. When Britain sold cattle and grain to the League, they were paid in "Easterling coins".

Measurements: Face of the Ring 22.50 mm x 13.00 mm 

Stone Size: Mother Of Pearl 17.50 mm x 13.00 mm    Garnet  .10 carat     Marcasite 1.00 mm 

Weight: 9.40 grams 

Ring Size: 10

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1980