Circa 1940s 11.05-Carat Sapphire Ring

Dating to circa 1940, this sterling silver-topped 10KT yellow gold Retro ring centers an impressive 11.05-carat cushion mixed-cut natural sapphire. Set in six yellow gold prongs, the pale blue sapphire rises above a dramatic floral surround of ten natural sapphires weighing approximately 1.14 carats in total.

The side view reveals just how architectural the setting is. An open gallery lifts the large center sapphire above the surrounding stones, while the individual silver elements descend toward the yellow gold shank. The contrast between the cool, naturally darkened silver and warm yellow gold makes the construction itself part of the design.

Silver-topped gold jewelry uses two metals with very different visual roles. Gold provides warmth and structure, while silver creates a cool setting for the gemstones and, as its surface develops patina, can emphasize recesses and dimensional metalwork. On this ring, that darkened silver isn't something to polish away. It helps us see the petals, openings, and layers that give the setting its extraordinary depth.