Description: A bezel lesson? What is a bezel? It is a surround or precise frame for a gemstone or diamond that conforms exactly to its perimeter. In early jewelry, particularly those from the 14th through to 18th century, often rings might only have one stone surrounded by a rub-over bezel. It was burnished until the metal, in this case, gold was spread like butter over the sides and a tiny portion of the top edge. There is virtually no gap between it and the stone. Not even a fingernail can slip underneath the gold. Collectors note! Please pay close attention to its perfection. As once disturbed, it can almost never be the same again. Often stones may have been removed and replaced, re-foiled, recut or the bezel damaged. It will look bent, rippled, dented, and have spaces between the metal and the stone it holds. Therefore, the value is likely significantly compromised. It is a rarity when you find a ring with its bezel in near-perfect condition. This amazing early 17th-century ring is one piece of rock crystal, table cut, with pink foil beneath. It is then placed in a box bezel and then set in 18k yellow gold. Simplicity and yet beyond elegance. Museum condition. Simplicity is the era and for similar rings, look up those from the Cheapside Hoard. For a near identical ring, see the final photographs © Diana Scarisbrick's book, ?Rings Symbols of Weather, Power & Affection?, Harry N. Abrams, Inc. Publishers. Pages 90 & 91. The portrait is by Anthony Van Dyke in 1638, entitled, Thomas Killigrew and William, Lord Crofts (?) housed in the Royal Trust Collection, UK. Date: 1st Quarter of the 17th Century.What is the best thing about devoting your life's work to antique & vintage jewelry? Too numerous to list, the tally runs from our fantastic clients to admiring and touching exquisite adornment all day long. One aspect that continuously amazes me is the endless variety of jewelry. In such compact and often tiny sizes, for millennia designers, metalsmiths, and jewelers have conjured up what seems to be an infinite variety of colors, shapes, symbols, inspiration, and forms. Bringing me to this ring. Another "I have never seen one before"! How can this be after nearly 30 plus years or more of looking at, studying, reading about, viewing collections, and seeing hundreds of thousands of pieces of jewelry? Well, you can see for yourself the singular nature of this precious object. In 15k rose gold, three bands of robin's egg blue opaque enamel encircle the ring. These alternate with tiny dimples to the gold. Two "O" fittings connect an articulated bar from which dangle six circular medallions. Each is enameled with a letter spelling out "MIZPAH". Both the bar and each of the dangles sway freely from the wide band. I will only go into the briefest history of the meaning and use of Mizpah in jewelry. Internet searches will flesh out many interesting facts. Its history is long, but the word is Hebrew for watchtower, interpreted as may God watch over you. Particularly in times of war, the use conveyed to another that the Almighty would take care of you while apart and return you safely again. Rare and fine, in exceptional condition. Date: Circa 1880. Measurements: Ring size 5.5 but fits closer to a 4 3/4 or a 5 and cannot be sized. Width of 5/16 of an inch (7 mm). Weight of 5.5 grams. Condition: Excellent, appears unworn. ========== Questions - Contact us, or call 877-449-0090 or www.georgianjewelry.com or www.thethreegraces.com Same website, same great service since 2002! Money Back Guarantee, No Questions Asked. Full Appraisal & Italian Hand Made Gift Box & Satin Ribbon Gemology Lab On Site All Items Tested & Vetted Antique & Vintage Jewelry Our Specialty Since 2002! Family Run Impeccable Reputation Free Shipping & Free Returns - US Deliveries The Three Graces was established in 2002 and remains a family run business with honesty at our core. After all, our name The Three Graces? is derived from classical mythology, three muses representing TRUTH, BEAUTY, and JOY! Located outside Austin, Texas our expertise and value is unmatched. Check out our perfect buyer eBay rating at ParisPlique.
Price: 2450 USD
Location: Austin, Texas
End Time: 2024-08-25T00:03:04.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Seller
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Seller Warranty: Yes
Signed: No
Sizable: No
Material: Enamel
Metal: Rose Gold
Vintage: Yes
Brand: Unbranded
Ring Size: 5.5
Type: Ring
Metal Purity: 15k
Era: Victorian (1837-1901)
Original/Reproduction: Original
Theme: Love, Luck, Signs & Symbols