Edwardian Ruby Diamond Platinum Ring

Dating to circa 1910, this Edwardian ring is crafted in platinum and features a 1.63-carat cushion mixed-cut natural ruby. Bezel-set low in the design, the ruby's saturated crimson color remains the center of an intricate composition of diamonds, pierced metalwork, and engraving.

Fourteen old European-cut diamonds, weighing approximately .42 carats in total, are bezel- and bead-set throughout the setting. Graded VVS2-VS1 clarity and F-G color, the diamonds are not arranged as a conventional halo. Instead, they are incorporated into the surrounding platinum work, with the larger stones flanking the ruby and smaller diamonds appearing within the engraved and pierced design. 

Edwardian platinum jewelry often rewards close inspection. Platinum's strength allowed jewelers to work with relatively fine sections of metal while maintaining structural integrity, opening the door to increasingly intricate pierced and filigree designs. In pieces like this, the setting was not merely a framework for gemstones. The metalwork itself became part of the ornament.

Appraised Value:  $30,600