Whimsical Wonder : Antique Turquoise and Seed Pearl Ring in 14ct Rose Gold

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One of the most unusual rings I’ve had the privilege to hold, it was a real temptation to keep this one 💙 It wraps so wonderfully around your finger in such a sensual way. I don’t think I’ve ever said this about a ring before – it’s sexy.

The face of the ring is an elongated oval or possibly a ‘navette’ shape, known for lengthening the finger. A central turquoise cabochon of 3.7mm is bezel set in the centre of the ring, with further turquoise cabochons set north-south in the centre of the ring in a propeller-like shape. 10 seed pearls border the turquoise stones. The shoulders are set with a further three turquoise cabochons at each shoulder, reminding me very much of bubbles. The natural turquoise stones range from a beautiful sleeping-beauty turquoise hue, through to deep olive green at the shoulders. Along the outer edge of the oval the gold is embellished with delicate engraving, somewhat reminiscent of Etruscan Revival jewellery with its Ancient World motifs. It’s a small but powerful detail that exemplifies just how much care went into the crafting of this beautiful piece of jewellery. Likewise the painstakingly hand-pierced band is a testament to the skill of the craftsperson and designer.

The only clues to the age of this ring are in its style. There are no hallmarks, no other little clues – both pearls and turquoise have been used in jewellery for time immemorial so that’s no help at all. The ring has a whimsy and a lightheartedness that makes me feel that this piece was handmade during the Edwardian Era, 1901 – 1910. I have seen similar, simpler bands in other rings that date from this period – and as it also has some elements that lean towards Art Nouveau (1890 -1910)  I think that Edwardian is a good fit.

The face of the ring measures 14mm north-south, 7.6mm east-west.
It weighs 2.1 grams
The band tapers from 3.2mm just below the turquoise trefoil to 1.6mm at the back. It is 0.7mm thick at its thinnest point.

There are no signs of repair or resizing, although the seed pearls have likely been recently replaced.

No hallmarks are present, the ring has been XRF (x-ray tested) as 14ct rose gold.

Currently a size M or 6.25
Resizable.

Description

A most unusual natural turquoise and seed pearl ring from the Edwardian Era (1901 – 1910)

The face of the ring measures 14mm north-south, 7.6mm east-west.
It weighs 2.1 grams

There are no signs of repair or resizing, although the seed pearls have likely been recently replaced.

No hallmarks are present, the ring has been XRF (x-ray tested) as 14ct rose gold.

Currently a size M or 6.25
Resizable.