8 Stone Antique Diamond Cluster Ring 22k
Antique cluster ring set with 8 diamonds weighing approximately 0.8ctw in 22k.
The diamonds are all fiery and clean.
This 8-stone diamond ring is of Straits Chinese origin, set in an East West design that showcases a very distinct look in our colonial jewellery art. The shared prong bezel has a scalloped gallery almost identical to well made Victorian cluster rings.
But unlike Victorian made rings, the diamonds are set using a very traditional Chinese ‘bead’ set technique, which continued in rings from the 19th century right through to the mid 20th century. Such ‘bead’ setting held diamonds as if ‘invisibly’ and only small gold dots can be perceived. Rings set this way do not catch onto fabric and are smooth to touch, but it required much tedium needing skilled craftsmanship around clusters of small diamonds.
These ring is made very well, the shared bezel contours to the finger. More similarities to Victorian rings can be seen in the ring shoulder and shank. Even the Chinese hallmarks are laid out uncannily similar to Birmingham hallmarks.
While we see many ethnic influenced Straits Chinese rings, we do not get many opportunities to get these Victorian ‘shadow’ pieces. An exemplar jewel to add to a Victorian collection.