Antique, Edwardian Sri Lankan sapphire and diamond cluster engagement ring

Provenance

Original to c.1905, this is the finest sapphire cluster ring we have ever had. Set to centre with an exceptional Ceylon sapphire of 9ct. Natural, unheated and displaying the most quintessential cornflower-blue colour, this stone is a true rarity. The old mines of Ceylon (modern day Sri Lanka) are renowned for producing some of the worlds finest stones. Indeed, the ancient Sanskrit name for the island was Ratna-Dweepa, which directly translates to ‘Island of Gems’. The sapphires found here have long been prized for their ethereal cornflower hues, velvety luminosity and remarkable clarity, as if they have captured the tropical blue skies and surrounding Indian Ocean within them. 

This sapphire has been hand-cut into a pleasing old cushion-cut, its softly rounded corners beautifully complimenting the delicate hue of the stone. Set within elegantly curving gold claws in an open-back setting. To a refined coronet cluster design, encircled by sixteen cushion-shaped old-mine cut diamonds claw set in platinum to evoke the delicate tips of petals. The old-mine cut is one of the earliest diamond cuts, and is characterised by its deep proportions, broad, irregular facets, large cullet and charming cushion outline. These diamonds came from the early deposits of India or Brazil and were entirely cut by hand. No two old-mine diamonds are identical - each has its own distinctive character and sparkle. They are known for their soft and romantic glow as opposed to the much harsher twinkle of modern laser-cut stones. These diamonds have been carefully matched in colour which is no easy feat with antique stones of this kind. 

The gallery is intricately pierced with a scalloped design, above a solid gold collet and lightly raised open shoulders which flow to a decorative ridge detail on either side, to a solid 18ct yellow gold band. This ring is a masterpiece of Edwardian craftsmanship, beautifully proportioned and timelessly elegant, it embodies the refined sensibility of the era it was made. Perhaps most impressively, this ring strikes the perfect balance between delicacy and presence. Sapphires of this calibre are scarcely found today and modern mass-produced rings simply cannot compete. This is a truly special ring.

The Natural Stones

• Sapphire weight: 9.0ct
• Sapphire size: Length 11.6mm; Width 9.7mm; Depth 8.3mm
  
• Gem Certification: Natural; unheated; Ceylon (Sri Lankan) origin; Old cushion-cut; Accompanied by GCS gemmological report #5786-2825.
• Total diamond weight: 0.75ct; Sixteen old-mine cut diamonds.

The Band

• Metal Composition: 18ct yellow gold and platinum

The Ring Overall

• Front Head Dimensions: Length 7.9mm; Width 5.45mm
• Height of Setting: 8mm
  

General Wear & Condition

• Excellent: minor wear commensurate with age. 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).