Edwardian, 3ct Natural Sri Lankan Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring

Sapphire and diamond ring, circa 1910. Collet-set with an untreated oval blue sapphire weighing approximately 3.00 carats, of an excellent deep blue with a hint of violet, characteristic of its Sri Lankan (Ceylon) origins. The mount is an extraordinary piece of decorative art - designed as stylised vines, it is composed entirely of pierced foliate scrolls with millegrain borders, each set with circular-cut diamonds, over an additional hand-pierced gallery with scroll design, and shoulders additionally engraved with lines of laurel leaves. Each detail of this exquisite ring was painstakingly carved by hand, a feat of craftsmanship and dedication that few modern jewellers would be able to match.