Antique Renaissance Ring Early XVI Century Ruby Chrysoberyl 18k Gold (6235)

Measurements: Weighs 3.9 grams. Approximately US size 4.75 - 5.

Description: A fine and delicate ring - quite a luxury item for the time and particularly rare to find today. In typical built up box mount is a square-cut pale yellow gem - the sides gently bezelled, but the top flat. A trio of diamond-shaped gold cells holds a ruby in each, forming the shoulders of the ring. Further down is finely modelled foliage and the tiniest remnants of the enamel that once adorned the hoop. There is a lot more enamel on the inside of the ring. During the Renaissance era, even the insides of the ring were decorated, as can be seen by the black and white arches that raise the gems as though offering them on high.

The pale yellow gem was originally sold to us as chrysoberyl, but we have since learned that is impossible as chrysoberyl was only discovered in 1789. Our gem tester gives a range that includes tourmaline and citrine, but we would leave it for a GIA appraiser to be more accurate. 

It is very exciting to imagine the generations of women who wore and took care of this ring!! As wearable today as it was 500 years ago.

Marks: No marks, as is to be expected. Gold was acid tested to ensure metal purity.

Condition: good with wear commensurate with age. Enamel is largely worn away and metal wear according to age and use. Shape off the round. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.