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Composition

  • ConstructionHand made with a polished finish
  • DesignElongated oval panel ring with a linear five-stone sapphire and diamond setting, pierced gallery back, and chased acanthus scroll shoulders
  • Metal Purity18ct yellow gold, tested using electro-chemical equipment
  • MarkingsNot hallmarked. Under the UK Hallmarking Act 1973, many antique and vintage pieces are legally exempt from hallmarking requirements. This piece has been assessed and is consistent with the period and metal type indicated
  • Gross WeightApproximately 7.1 grams
  • Curated FromEngland

Gemstone Details

  • Total Carat WeightApproximately 4.77ct (3.70ct sapphires and 1.07ct diamonds)

Measurements and grading are approximate and represent the average of all gemstones in each section, as measured while mounted, unless actual measurements are noted.

Diamond Screening: All diamonds have been screened and are confirmed to be of natural origin.

Sapphire

  • Quantity5
  • CutAsymmetrical oval faceted
  • Weight per stoneRange 0.25ct to 1.23ct
  • Total WeightApproximately 3.70ct
  • DimensionsRange 3.80mm x 3.20mm x 2.10mm to 8.1mm x 4.0mm x 3.3mm
  • ColourB 6/3, medium dark very slightly greyish blue
  • Origin & TreatmentThe centre stone has been independently certified as natural corundum, basaltic in origin, with no indications of heating (untreated), measuring 8.1 x 4.0 x 3.3mm at approximately 0.90ct (Gemmological Certification Services, Report No. 5786-3052, 30 June 2026). Only the centre stone has been submitted for independent certification. Given the consistent visual character across the grouping, the remaining four sapphires are presumed, but not certified, to share the same basaltic origin and untreated status.

Diamond

  • Quantity16
  • CutOld cut
  • Weight per stoneEstimated at 0.07ct each
  • Total WeightApproximately 1.07ct
  • DimensionsLength 2.25mm, Width 2.25mm, Depth 1.90mm
  • GradesColour G, Clarity I1

Note: there is a slight variation in colour across the sapphires and in dimensions and clarity across the diamonds; the noted figures represent an average for each group.

The Empress

Victorian (1837–1901) — Late Victorian period
Storied Find #: 085-26
Hand-fabricated approximately 1890–1901, this 18ct gold jewel commands the eye with its elongated oval panel. A linear procession of five deep blue oval sapphires runs the length of the mount, held within a wide, textured gold frame and bordered by the flicker of sixteen old-cut diamonds. The hand-chased shoulders, worked in a scrolling acanthus motif, suggest a piece built for candlelit dinners and evenings at the theatre, where its old-cut stones would have come alive under gaslight rather than daylight. It reads as a piece of late-century permanence, carrying real weight in the hand without tipping into ostentation.
Sentimental Token

In the Victorian language of gems, sapphire and diamond spoke together as a single sentiment: heavenly faith paired with everlasting love. Sapphire's celestial blue promised constancy and truth, while diamond's fire declared strength and permanence, an emblem increasingly tied to betrothal as the century progressed. Set side by side, as they are here, the two stones form devotion made visible, a faith meant to outlast its wearer.

Sustainability

Antique (Approx. 141 years old). By choosing a storied find from the Victorian era, you are participating in an ethos that values the enduring spirit of an object. This piece represents a commitment to preservation, requiring no new mining.

Ring Size
K½ · UK
✦ Sizable
Need a different size? Ring sizing starts from £40. Leave a note at checkout with your required size and we'll be happy to get in touch to discuss feasibility.

You'll also receive:

  • ✦ Oval Leatherette Case
  • ✦ The Ane Antrin Little Black Book (Hand-bound)
  • ✦ Insured & Tracked Shipping (Signature Required)
£4,900.00
UK tax included. Local taxes and international duties may apply upon delivery.
1 Available