Edwardian Sapphire Cluster Ring
Stunning antique cushion cluster ring formed around a vivid, royal blue sapphire set within a halo of glistening rose cut diamonds. Comparisons to the famous Princess Diana ring will be made. This one's crafted in 18 carat gold and platinum and the sapphire is an early example of Verneuil's flame-fusion technique. It dates from the Edwardian period - the early 20th century - and remains in great condition.
The principal stone is a flame-fusion sapphire, meaning it was created in a laboratory by a human. Sapphires and rubies are different colours of the mineral corundum, and these new, 'lab-grown' gemstones caused something of a sensation in the early years of the 20th century. The French chemist Augueste Verneuil perfected his technique, the Verneuil method, in 1883, which allowed him to 'grow' red and blue corundum crystals (rubies and sapphires) by passing powdered mineral 'ingredients' through an ultra hot oxyhydrogen flame. But this process was expensive, and the stones didn't become commercially viable until around 1905 when we find the first lab-grown sapphires and rubies in high-end jewellery. People went wild for them, with lab-grown stones making their way into some of the most expensive and prestigious jewellery around (see this 1913 tiara by Cartier); they were a triumph of modernity, of human's mastery over one facet of natural science, since their chemical composition is identical to naturally occurring counterparts; humans had recreated and harnessed the extreme heat and pressure within the Earth's crust, and succeeded in producing some of nature's most coveted and mesmerising treasures.
Era: Edwardian, circa 1910
Ring size: N or 6.75 US. Resizeable for £35
Head size: 15.9mm by 13.3mm
Stones: Synthetic Sapphire, 2.4ct calculated weight, & Rose Cut Diamonds
Marks: None, tested as 18ct gold
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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