Victorian Rose Diamond Band
Gorgeous antique diamond band with a mystery. English hallmarks warrant the 15 carat gold and tell us the year it was made (or, at least, the year it was stamped): 1872. There is also an inscription inside the band that reads: Esther Lea, 1743. But why? Why is a ring made during the latter half of the 19th century engraved with a name and date from the middle of the 18th? What did Esther Lea do that warranted commemoration almost 130 years later? Was the diamond salvaged from her wedding jewellery, and re-purposed by a grandchild (or great grandchild)?
The band is substantial, crafted in rosy 15 carat gold and set with a single, highly domed rose cut diamond over metal foil (to enhance its brilliance). There are small spots of water damage behind the stone, adding character and a slightly rustic moodiness (if you're into that kind of thing).
Era: Victorian, 1872
Ring size: M 1/2 or 6.5 US. Resize for £35
Width at head: 6.4mm
Width of band: 4.0mm
Stone: Rose Cut Diamond (40pt spread)
Hallmarks: English, Birmingham, 15ct Gold, 1872 (it is possible that these hallmarks were added later)
Condition: Good antique condition. Light tarnish around the stone can be polished out if preferred. Small spots of water damage to the foil behind the diamond. Excellent patina
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)
Buying a Gift?
Leave a note at checkout and we'll include a handwritten note to the recipient. Just tell us what you'd like to say
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.
More Questions?
Get in touch... There's a live chat at the bottom right of each page.
alex@lostowl.jewelry
An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
*shopping cart, not the checkout