Edwardian, 18ct Gold, ‘Toi et Moi’ Sapphire and Diamond Ring

Sapphire and diamond ring, circa 1900. Set with a cushion-shaped blue sapphire and an old mine cut diamond, the distinctive design of this ring, with the two main stones meeting in the centre is known as a ‘toi et moi’, or ‘you and me’. The toi-et-moi became extremely popular in the late 19^th century as a choice for an engagement ring, with the stones representing the two lovers joining together. This example is set with yellow gold and platinum, typical of the period, with the platinum bringing out the white sparkle of the single-cut, rose-cut and old mine diamonds, and the rich yellow gold offsetting the cornflower blue of the sapphire. A particularly lovely example of this romantic design – a wonderful choice for an engagement ring.