Antique Art Nouveau Ring 18k Gold Turquoise Diamonds Navette Eugene Barral (7051)

Antique Art Nouveau Marguerite ring. 18k yellow gold, Turquoise, diamonds and a tiny amount of silver. Made in France c1900 by Eugene Barral. Previously sold by Tadema Gallery London, their ref #8258, and comes in their ring box.

Measurements: Weight is 5.2 grams. Length of bezel is 2.3cm (0.91inches). Ring size US 8.3.

Description : Navette shaped ring - a long oval with pointed ends. Called Marguerite, which means Daisy in French because of the moulded gold daisies on either side of the bezel, running down to form the shoulders of the ring. The two arching bands of daisies hold up a long, navette-shaped turquoise of a lovely uniform color, bordered on either of the long-ends by finely set, small rose-cut diamonds in silver, as was the custom in those days. Contrast the soft glow of the gold to the sheen of the turquoise. The turquoise is allowed to shine and star with the diamonds for once taking the backstage and acting merely to show off the turquoise to best advantage and 'finish' off the ring with a little extra pezazz. A lovely example of rare Art Nouveau jewelry with the elongated, arching shape, the beautifully modelled flowers and fine workmanship. Flowers such as daisies (Margueritte in French) were very popular during the Art Nouveau era. The luscious triangle formed by the flowers ending at the shoulders with a whooping, whiplash loop of gold, are almost a signature for the Art Nouveau style and period. Typically French attention to detail such as the gentle curve of the bezel that wraps around the finger, adding elegance and beauty.

Marks and Metal: Outside of shank has French control mark for 18k gold and maker's mark E barrel B for the maker. For same mark, see Joseph Sataloff's book on Art Nouveau Jewelry, page 86.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age and use such as the wear to the shank which we expect after 1 1/4 centuries. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.