Post-War Luxe: Heirloom Emerald & Diamond Engagement Ring
This ring, a harmonious blend of fifties flair and Art Deco's geometric elegance, tells a tale of timeless commitment. Crafted around 1950, it carries the era's spirit, touching the threshold of Retro and Art Deco styles with its platinum gleam and bold
design. At its heart, a 2.20 carat untreated emerald, encircled by 14 old mine-cut diamonds totalling approximately 2.24 carat, whispers stories of ancient Roman betrothals and the enduring tradition of engagement rings that became standardised with
diamonds in the West around the 1930s. Each stone is a testament to natural beauty and authenticity, echoing a history of love's promise.
Jewellery type
Antique engagement ring (also known as estate jewelry in some parts of the world).
Condition: very good condition
- (more info on
our condition scale)
Country of origin: unknown
Despite careful examination, no hallmarks or distinctive features could be identified that would allow us to attribute this jewel to a specific country. Its materials and construction, however, do allow us to confidently date it to around 1950.
Style: Although most people would call this style Art Deco, it is more accurately described as a product of the 1950s. Strongly influenced by Art Deco and Retro styles, it reflects the evolution of design through mid-century trends.
or more info on
styles
Style specifics:
This type of jewellery is typical of the 1950s. The Art Deco period had ended just two decades prior and remained a key source of inspiration. Even to the trained eye, it can be challenging to distinguish between Art Deco and 1950s pieces.
Period: ca. 1950
- (
events & facts of this era,
poetry
of this era,
fashion of this era)
Material: platinum (touchstone tested)
- (more info on
precious metals)
Extra information:
Betrothal rings were used in Roman times but only regained popularity in the Western world from the 13th century onward. The first recorded use of a diamond engagement ring was by Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1477. Before the 20th century, other
forms of betrothal gifts, such as sewing thimbles, were often used, particularly in religious communities that avoided jewellery. Diamond rings became widespread from the 1930s onward. Today, around 80% of women receive a diamond engagement ring. (from:
Wikipedia)
Precious stones:
• 1 emerald, estimated weight approx. 2.20 carat (natural and untreated)
• 14 old mine brilliant cut diamonds, estimated total weight approx. 2.24 carat (average colour and clarity: H/J, VS/I)
Weight, colour and clarity were assessed while the stones remained set, in order to maintain the jewel’s original condition. The values given should therefore be considered expert approximations.
Every diamond in our antique and vintage jewellery has been examined and confirmed as 100% natural by the IJGC laboratory.
Birthstones:
Diamond is the birthstone for
April
and
emerald for
May.
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birthstones)
Hallmarks:
No hallmarks present. The ring was carefully examined, but no visible or legible marks could be identified. In our practice, it is not uncommon to encounter jewellery without hallmarks. For this reason, all pieces are tested with the touchstone, even
when hallmarks are present.
- (more info on
hallmarks)
Dimensions: top of ring 16.8 mm (0.66 inch) × 19.6 mm (0.77 inch)
- See picture with a ruler in cm and inches
Weight: 6.00 gram (3.86 dwt)
Ring size Continental: 52 & 16½,
Size US: 6,
Size UK: L
Resizing: Free resizing (only for extreme adjustments a small fee may apply). Due to the way the ring is constructed, not all sizes may be possible, so please enquire in advance.
- (more info on
ring sizes)
Adin Reference Nº: 19343-0010
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Copyright photography: Adin Fine Vintage & Antique Jewellery
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