Edwardian Diamond Buttercup Ring
An exceptional antique buttercup ring set with a particularly bright (and wonky) old mine cut diamond. The settings, carved from the gold of the head, give the appearance of flower petals, and cause the light to reflect back out through the stone enhancing its brilliance. This one's crafted in 18 carat gold and dates from the early 20th century with English hallmarks from 1905.
The old mine cut is a precursor to the modern brilliant cut, and they're both rare and sought-after amongst antique jewellery heads. First recorded in the 17th century, the cut is characterised by a cushion-shaped profile, high table and open culet (meaning the point on the bottom of the stone is cut off), and large irregular facets that gives each stone its own unique character and charm, unlike the precision-cut modern brilliants on the market today. The name, old mine or old miner (or simply OMC in contemporary discourse), was first applied to stones that were a) cut in this fashion, and b) displayed the colourless properties associated with the 'Old Mines' of Brazil and India, but ultimately came to describe the just cut, irrespective of origin. Diamonds from the 'New Mines' that opened in Africa in the 19th century often presented a yellow tint, and became known as Cape diamonds.
Era: Edwardian, 1905
Head size: 10.2mm by 8.1mm
Ring size: R or 8.5 US. Resize for £35
Stone: Old Mine Cut Diamond (0.24ct calculated)
Marks: English, Birmingham, 18ct Gold, 1905
Condition: Great antique condition
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
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
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