Georgian Target Ring
RESERVED An incredible Georgian oval cluster ring with concentric rings of white paste gemstones and royal blue guilloché enamel around a central pale blue paste gemstone. The head is curved to conform to the finger, keeping it snug and low when worn, and the band is reeded with three gold wires forming simple, split trifurcated shoulders. English, circa 1830.
Paste - if you're not familiar - is the trade term for glass. But not any old glass, a special gemstone-imitating form of leaded glass. The technique was first perfected in the 18th century by Georges-Frédéric Strass, who decided to make a convincing alternative to diamond by adding various ingredients (ultimately loads of lead) to the glass, thus increasing its refractive index and as a result its fire (ability to split light into its constituent colours) and brilliance (brightness). He was remarkably successful, and Strass paste diamonds would, for a time, command as much as the natural stones they were imitating. Further experimentation using transition metals such as copper, titanium, chromium, etc. allowed the production of imitation coloured gemstones like the aquamarine paste at the heart of this charming target ring.
Era: Georgian circa 1830
Ring size: 6.5 US or M 1/2 UK/AUS. Resizable for £35.
Head size: 20.6mm by 13.0mm
Stones: Paste gemstones
Marks: Stamped 9ct
Condition: Great antique condition. Light wear/patina consistent with age.
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.
More Questions?
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alex@lostowl.jewelry