Antique, Victorian old-mine cut diamond five-stone ring

Provenance

Original to c.1890, this late Victorian old-cut diamond five-stone ring is stunning! Five-stone designs such as this one were hugely popular in the late Victorian period, often called the 'aesthetic period' in jewellery history, when more understated and less ornate styles were in fashion. This piece is set with five antique diamonds which have been carefully graduated in size to offer a flattering spread of stones across the finger. What I love about this ring is that it combines different antique diamond cuts. The central diamond and two of the smaller stones are cushion old-mines and the remaining two diamonds are round old-cuts.

The cushion old-mine cut is one of the earliest diamond cuts and is recognised by its softly rounded squarish outline, deep proportions and large culet. The round old-cut evolved from the old-mine and is characterised by its round outline, smaller culet and more regular arrangement of facets. Both diamond cuts were entirely facetted by hand and no two will ever be identical. Both display a gorgeous romantic glow rather than the sharp scinitilation of modern laser cut stones.

The diamonds are grain-set and encased by a thick polished border which follows the curve of the graduating diamonds to form an elongated marquise-like shape. This gold border effortlessly flows into a solid D-shape shank. The rings profile is low and conforms comfortably to the finger, making this ring perfect for everyday wear. While this style of ring was immensely popular during the period in which it was made, it is notably less common to find diamond only examples. Most were set with coloured gemstones with diamonds in-between. 

Despite being made over a century ago, there is something that feels inherently modern about it. Extremely wearable and effortlessly chic, it would make the perfect engagement ring.

The Natural Stones

• Principal diamond weight: 0.28ct
• Principal diamond size: Length 4mm; Width 4.2mm; Depth 2.35mm
• Total diamond weight: 0.66ct; Three cushion old-mine cut diamonds; Two round old-cut diamonds.

The Band

• Metal Composition: 18ct yellow gold.

The Ring Overall

• Front Head Dimensions: Length 5.7mm; Width 17.5mm 
• Height of Setting: 2.6mm

General Wear & Condition

• Excellent: all stones are secure and well set, with no damage to the mount. Professionally polished and carefully inspected by our workshop, ready to wear and enjoy.

Unless stated otherwise, gem weights and specifications are estimated (assessed in mount).