Composition
Mount Details
- ConstructionHandmade & cast parts with a polished finish
- DesignTriple knife edge diagonal cluster, in the Victorian "Jubilee" patriotic ring convention
- Metal PurityYellow metal tested using electro-chemical equipment; the reaction is consistent with 18ct gold. The white metal is silver, topping the diamond and coloured-stone settings over the gold body.
- Markings/HallmarksNot hallmarked. Under the UK Hallmarking Act 1973, many antique pieces are legally exempt from hallmarking requirements. This piece has been assessed and is consistent with the period and metal type indicated.
- Gross WeightApproximately 6.1 grams
- Curated FromEngland
Gemstone Details
Total Carat Weight: 1.76ct
Measurements and grading are approximate and represent the average of all gemstones in each section, unless actual measurements are noted.
Diamond Screening: All diamonds have been screened and are confirmed to be of natural origin.
Diamond (centre)
- Quantity & Cut1 Old cut
- Weight0.52ct
- Dimensions4.99mm x 4.53mm x 3.22mm
- GradesColour G, Clarity VS1
- GirdleSlightly thick, bruted
Natural Ruby (GCS Certified)
- Quantity & Cut1 Oval faceted
- Weight0.50ct
- Dimensions5.7mm x 4.1mm x 2.5mm
- OriginThailand/Cambodia
- TreatmentNo indications of heat treatment
- Other DetailsAccompanied by GCS report confirming natural origin and unheated status
Natural Sapphire (GCS Certified)
- Quantity & Cut1 Oval faceted
- Weight0.40ct
- Dimensions5.5mm x 4.0mm x 2.2mm
- OriginBasaltic deposit
- TreatmentNo indications of heat treatment
- Other DetailsAccompanied by GCS report confirming natural origin and unheated status
Diamond (accent, x3)
- Quantity & Cut3 Old cut
- Weight0.08ct each; Estimated Total Weight 0.23ct
- Dimensions2.50mm x 2.50mm x 1.72mm
- GradesColour H, Clarity I1
Diamond (accent, x3)
- Quantity & Cut3 Old cushion cut
- Weight0.05ct each; Estimated Total Weight 0.15ct
- Dimensions2.70mm x 1.80mm x 1.60mm
- GradesColour H, Clarity I1
Condition
Very Good
In very good condition, carrying the honest signs of well over a century of wear alongside a history of careful, sympathetic conservation. A hairline fracture at the shoulder has been professionally laser-welded with matching gold, restoring the ring's structural integrity invisibly. Four claws around the smaller diamonds have been re-tipped, and one claw has been fully rebuilt, all carried out by a master goldsmith and finished to sit seamlessly alongside the original work. Under magnification, the centre diamond, ruby, and sapphire all show fine surface wear to their girdles. It's invisible to the naked eye and takes nothing away from the ring's brilliance when worn.
Keeper's Guide to Care
Everyday Wear
Diamond, Mohs hardness 10, sits at the centre of this ring and is the hardest natural material known, with the sapphire and ruby around it close behind at Mohs 9, a genuinely durable combination for daily wear.
Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies are among the most resilient stones in the Archive and love a gentle refresh: a bowl of lukewarm, mild soapy water and a very soft toothbrush will clear away the dust of history. Many vintage settings, including this one, are best kept away from an ultrasonic cleaner: the vibrations can loosen old claws or disturb silver-topped work, even where the stones themselves would tolerate it. A soft polishing cloth will keep the yellow gold bright, while the silver-topped claws are best left to develop their gentle, authentic tarnish in the recesses rather than being polished aggressively.
An annual professional check-up is recommended to confirm all claws remain stable and the settings secure. Given the ring's age, avoid exposing it to sudden temperature changes or impact, and remove it before manual work, exercise, or applying lotions and perfumes.
