Recently Sold (VR764)

Violet Days - Vintage Sterling Silver Amethyst Crystal & Marcasite Ring. This lovely ring is crafted from sterling silver, hallmarked 925, and a makers mark RMN. Featuring one round cut faceted crystal gemstone, six genuine rose-cut marcasite gems, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring exhibits a floral motif, which is adorned by an expertly bezel set purple crystal gem and sparkling marcasite. The band is smooth and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. The pretty vintage ring would make a charming gift, or addition to any jewelry collection.  

History: History: Rhinestones or man made crystals, which are also known as diamantes or paste date back as far as the thirteenth century where they were first made from Czechoslovakian or Bohemian hand blown glass. The term rhinestone came along later, when rock crystals were discovered in and around the shores of the river Rhine in Austria.

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 Incas are the first known civilization to have used marcasite in jewellery, with marcasite jewellery found in many Incan burial chambers.

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 sterling alloy originated in continental Europe and was being used for commerce as early as the 12th century in the area that is now northern Germany. A piece of sterling silver dating from Henry II's reign was used as a standard in the Trial of the Pyx until it was deposited at the Royal Mint in 1843.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 15.00 mm x 14.00 mm 

Stone Size: Crystal 4.50 mm round        Marcasite: 1.50 mm each 

Weight: 3.90 grams 

Ring Size: 7 1/4 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Italy 

Date: Circa 1980