Vintage, 1940s old-mine cut diamond three-stone engagement ring

Provenance

Made in the early 1940s, this three-stone ring is simply perfect. It features several old-mine cut diamonds, beautifully graduated in size, with the central stone considerably larger than the two that flank it. The central diamond is the most quintessential cushion shaped old-mine cut diamond ever - instantly recognised by its softly rounded squarish-outline, deep proportions and charmingly chunky hand-cut facets. It has a strikingly bright and lively appearance and is captivating to turn in the light. Claw set in an open-back setting featuring fine split prong detail.

The central diamond is flanked by two smaller cushion shape old-mine cut diamonds with a combined weight of 0.58ct. Also claw set in an open-back setting featuring fine split prong detail. 

Although made in the first half of the 20th century, the diamonds in this ring are centuries older. The old-mine cut is one of the earliest diamond cuts and the stones will have come from India or Brazil, which were the only two known deposits at the time.

Fashioned and facetted entirely by hand under daylight or candlelight, no two diamonds are identical. Each has its own unique character, charm and sparkle and this is what makes them so special. These particular stones are very early examples of old-mine cut diamonds - looking at the shape and distribution of facets and culets, its likely these diamonds were cut in the late 1700s.

The gallery is deep and features refined openwork with scalloped detail, leading to raised open shoulders which chenier detail, gently tapering to a solid D-shape 18ct white gold band. The proportions of this ring aren't often seen with such old diamonds, making this a particularly special ring!   

The Natural Stones

• Central diamond weight: 0.61ct
• Central diamond size: Length 5.5mm; Width 4.9mm; Depth 3.2mm
• Total diamond weight: 1.19ct; Cushion shape old mine-cut diamonds; the two flanking diamonds have a combined weight of 0.58ct. 

The Band

• Metal Composition: 18ct white gold.
• Hallmarks: Marked with '18CT' indicating 18ct white gold. Further marked with an indistinct makers mark which we have not been able to decipher, further stamped with the hallmark 'T', indicating this ring was made in 1943.

The Ring Overall

• Front Head Dimensions: Length 5.3mm; Width 13mm 
• Height of Setting: 5.9mm 

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).