Antique Victorian Ring Sapphire Diamonds 18k Gold Napoleon III French (7042)

Antique Victorian Napoleon III ring. 18k yellow gold, sapphire, diamonds. Small amount of silver. Made in France, circa 1860-80. Independent appraisal.

Measurements: Weight is 4.7 grams. US size 6 (can be sized quite easily). Length of bezel is 18mm. Sapphire 1.15ct.

Description : Oval ring with 3 concentric rings. The inner oval is a wonderful, deep blue sapphire, surrounded by a ring of small rose-cut diamonds set in silver, as was the custom at the time. The diamonds and sapphire seem to float within an outer border of gold modelled as foliage and berries. There is a tiny space between the outer ring of gold and the inner ring of diamonds, adding to the floating design. Trifurcated shoulders with the two outer strips curving away from one another and ending in a golden globe punctuation point. The inner branch is composed of a row of golden globules that reach the outside of the outer ring of gold of the bezel. The 3 branches of the shoulders join to form a simple shank. Beautiful workmanship and design, typical of late 19th century French jewelry. During this time, the French focused on a lavish life-style, with every form of luxury having a priority in their lives. This ring is a wonderful example of that sensitivity to aesthetics, style and quality that were unrivalled anywhere in the world. The ring is still as fabulous today as it was 150 years ago.

Marks and Metal: Eagle head mark on outside of shank indicates 18k gold, made in France.

Condition: Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.