Antique, Edwardian sapphire and old-mine-cut diamond five-stone ring

Provenance

Original to 1905, this Edwardian sapphire and diamond five stone ring was made in Chester, England. The central sapphire is cushion shaped and boasts a rich and velvety blue colour comparable to a lagoon - quite literally perfect! Further set with two more natural sapphires which are perfectly matched in colour and catch the light beautifully, the combined approximate sapphire weight is 1.34ct. Two old-mine cut diamonds flank the central sapphire. Their softly irregular cushion-shaped outlines beautifully complement the antique cut sapphire, while their broad, chunky facets create the romantic, gentle glow so characteristic of old mine-cut diamonds. The combined approximate diamond weight is 0.62ct.

To a stunning five-stone with a well proportioned spread across the finger. The stones are set in elegantly curving decorative claws leading to an intricate gallery with carved scalloped detail. The shoulders are engraved with ornate scrolling motifs that form a foliate design and gently taper to a solid 18ct yellow gold band.

Despite bearing the hallmarks for Chester, 1905, the style of ring is very clearly inspired by Victorian carved half-hoop rings which were very popular during the 1880s-1890s. At the time this ring was made, the Edwardian style was in full-swing, characterised by a sense of delicacy and lightness made possible by the introduction of platinum. The band is further inscribed with the date ‘10-3-09’, likely marking a wedding day - a touching reminder of the love story it has already witnessed, and those it is yet to hold.

The Natural Stones

• Principal sapphire weight: 0.80ct
• Principal sapphire size: Length 6mm; Width 5.2mm; Depth 3.2mm
  
• Total sapphire weight: 1.34ct
• Total diamond weight: 0.62ct; old-mine-cut. 

The Band

• Metal Composition: 18ct yellow gold.
• Hallmarks: Marked with hallmarks that trace the ring to Chester, c.1905. Further marked with '18' indicating 18ct yellow gold. Further inscribed with commemorative date '10-3-09'.

The Ring Overall

• Front Head Dimensions: Length 7.1mm; Width 18.8mm
• Height of Setting: 4.3mm
  

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).