Art Deco Alexandrite Ring
A remarkable antique solitaire ring set with a natural alexandrite colour-change gemstone. It dates from the Art Deco period, circa 1920, the principal stone certified at 2.71 carats, natural chrysoberyl (variety alexandrite) appearing green in daylight and purple in incandescent light. Set in an 18ct gold mount with scrolled platinum shoulder details and prongs.
Alexandrite is a rare and much coveted gemstone, on account of it's near-miraculous colour-change properties. It was first discovered in the Ural mountains in 1830, named after Czar Alexander II. Alexandrite is the birthstone for June.
Different "white" light sources contain different concentrations of each wavelength (aka colour) of light: daylight, for example, is rich in green wavelengths, whereas incandescent bulbs are much richer in the red wavelengths. Colour-change gemstones, such as alexandrite and some sapphires and garnets, will selectively absorb certain wavelengths, making the eye perceive totally different colours under different "white" light sources. In this case, the stone appears a moody, mossy green in the day, and a deep, rich purple colour under electric bulbs - flashing bright pink when light is transmitted directly through it.
Era: Art Deco, circa 1920
Head size: 9.9mm by 7.8mm
Ring size: L 1/2 or 6 US. Resizable for £35
Stone: Natural chrysoberyl, variety alexandrite. 2.71ct emerald cut with green to purple colour change. Certified by The Gem & Pearl Laboratory of London, report number 23668
Marks: Stamped 18ct & PLAT
Condition: Good antique condition with light patina to the metal and light wear consistent with age. The stone is naturally included - see images - some of which are surface reaching. There are some nibbles and to the facet edges and a small chip the the girdle
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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