Victorian Sapphire & Diamond Navette Ring

Dating to circa 1870, this Victorian navette ring is crafted in 18KT gold and features a graduated row of five natural round mixed-cut sapphires totaling .68 carats. Their saturated blue color runs through the length of the ring, framed by sixteen old European-cut diamonds totaling 1.28 carats.

The old European-cut diamonds are especially effective. Their broader, less uniform flashes of light create a lively frame around the sapphires rather than a perfectly even halo, giving the ring the unmistakable character of an antique jewel.

Navette, from the French word for “little ship,” describes the elongated, pointed shape seen in jewelry designs such as this. The form became particularly effective in Victorian rings because it allowed jewelers to build substantial visual presence along the finger while maintaining a narrow, graceful profile.

Appraised Value:  $6,850