Delicate "Toi-et-Moi" Ring with Natural Pearl & Diamonds, c. 1915

We first encounter rings with delicately curved rails, at the ends of which precious gemstones or pearls are presented, in the years c. 1900. Inspired by the dynamic forms of Art Nouveau, this jewellery fashions quickly became a great success. It is no wonder that such designs remained fashionable until the 1940s, despite all other changes in taste. This ring also follows this fashion. At its center, it features a natural pearl from the Persian Gulf and a large old-cut diamond as its central protagonists. Eight further sparkling octagonal-cut diamonds set the curved ring shoulders. As they are set in platinum, they create a play of white reflections that appears delicate and elegant. The ring band itself is made of yellow gold. The juxtaposition of the two large elements, the pearl and the diamond, also identifies the ring as a so-called "toi-et-moi" piece of jewellery. These "you-and-me" pieces of jewellery are typical gifts of love. In the imagination of the time, two lovers face each other here. They are recognizable as independent elements, yet firmly connected by their feelings and symbolically united in a piece of jewellery. The materials used, the cuts of the stones and the shape of the ring allow us to date it to the early years of the 20th century. It is beautifully preserved and a wonderful, precious piece.

Estimate:£4,068.76

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