Large Belle Époque Ring with Sapphire & Diamonds, c. 1895

In the final years of the 19th century, numerous goldsmiths revisited the elegant forms of the French Louis XVI style. Symmetrical volutes, delicate rocailles, and openwork ornaments characterized the style, which gained great popularity, particularly in France and England. This revival reflected a historicist interest in past eras, which were regarded as expressions of the highest artistic achievement. At the same time, designers combined these classical models with modern manufacturing techniques, creating pieces of jewellery that drew on historical design elements without merely copying them. This elegant ring belongs to this tradition. The ring is crafted from high-karat gold. At the center of the large, intricately openwork ring face sits a round-faceted sapphire of a deep blue colour. Above and below the center stone, two old-cut diamonds are set in the center of leaf motifs. Four opposing volutes encircle the composition, together forming a strictly symmetrical ornament that covers nearly an entire finger joint. A total of 66 diamond roses cover every part of the ring face, lending it a soft sparkle. The yellow gold band, with its volute-shaped shoulders, provides a striking contrast to the silver-plated ring face. According to the hallmark, the ring was exported to France in more recent times. And it was there—in Paris, to be precise—that we discovered this well-preserved piece of jewellery. The choice of materials, craftsmanship, and ornamentation lead us to date it to around 1895.

Estimate:£3,644.05

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