Antique 15ct Gold Victorian Period Ruby and Pearl Ring

Description

This beautiful antique and petite 15ct gold ruby and natural pearl ring dates from the Victorian times, around the 1860-1880.

The rubies are octagon cut with the central stone surrounded by 6 natural seed pearls, all claw set. Rubies are considered more valuable and rarer than diamonds. Rubies are also the second hardest stones next to diamond and moissanite which is a synthetic diamond look-alike. These particular rubies would have been mined in the days before synthetic enhancement became commonplace.

There is some hand chased design to either side of the main setting. The inside of the ring is fully hallmarked with the 15ct and .625 stamps. English jewellery carrying the 15ct mark would have been made between 1854 and 1931. There would have been a year date for this ring but unfortunately, it has become worn.

There are initials inscribed on either side of the hallmarks that appear to be RB and CM.

For a small finger size J to J 1/2. I would personally not recommend resizing this ring because of where the hallmarks are located in the bottom centre of the shank.  It would be possible to have a piece of gold inserted between the 15ct and .625 stamps but the marks would otherwise be lost in resizing. Do choose a good jeweller if the ring needs resizing.

A perfect gift for 40 years of marriage, Ruby Wedding Anniversary!