Antique Victorian ring emerald diamonds gold silver openwork Sicily (7303)

Antique Victorian ring. Gold, silver, emerald and diamonds. Made in Sicily, Italy, circa 1890.
Independent appraisal.

Measurements: Weight is 10.0 grams. Emerald 0.65ct; diamonds 0.75ct. Length tip to tip is approximately 1 3/8 inches (3.5cm). US size 8.

Description : A large ring. Navette or boat shaped ring which was very popular during the late Victorian era. A central, rectangular cut emerald set in a gold bezel that shows off the color of the emerald to great effect. The gold mount with minute granulation or beadwork on the edge. It is surrounded by scrolling openwork in silver with a pair of rose cut diamonds near the long ends of the navette. The border is a lovely design of bezel set diamonds raised above the level of the scrolling openwork within: one bigger diamond alternating with a pair of smaller ones. This adds to the lightness and snowflake like appearance of the diamonds. Since every diamond catches the light at a different time and angle, there is constant flashing of movement to the eye. Like most Victorian jewelry, the diamonds are set in silver over gold. This was to show them off to better effect in candle or gas light.
Beneath the silver mount of each diamond is a gold base - a leaf form for each gem, with engraved linear detail. The shoulders are also foliate in gold and the shank is modelled with scrolling foliage all the way around.
Large size, impressive ring. It is interesting that the craftsman combined the size with very delicate workmanship and design so it has a light appearance.

Marks and Metal: Gold electronically tested as 9.5k, which is typical of Sicilian jewelry of this period.

Condition: Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. The silver was recently cleaned and is very shiny. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.

Independent appraisal available to new owner (valued at $5000.00).