This 18k yellow gold ring has a silver front setting, set with 15 rose-cut diamonds in closed, silver rubbed-over settings. Traditionally, diamonds were set in silver settings to optically enhance their colour and brilliance, while the backs and shanks were made in gold, to prevent the silver from tarnishing and staining your skin.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: US 8.25, UK Q, circumference 58 mm.
The front setting measures 21 x 12 mm.
This ring could be sized if desired.
Weight: 1.34 grams.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian Era, circa 1840s.
Hallmarks: The outside of the shank carries a partial Belgian horse head hallmark, which was used for 18k gold between 1831 and 1869. The back of the shank displays a partial makers mark, which cannot be read anymore. The inside carries the inscription '123', likely an old inventory number of a jeweler or collector. The inside has also two modern hallmarks, for 14k gold and 925/1000 silver. The modern ways of testing gold are far more advanced than in the 19th Century, which explains why the old hallmark states 18k, while the modern version states 14k. I consider the modern hallmarks as accurate displays of the alloy, while the old hallmarks help us date it precisely.
Condition: The ring is in great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that this shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import taxes.