1900 cluster ring set with rose cut diamonds in 20k.

In a classic ‘button’ form very much influenced by Victorian rings, these hand cut diamonds are the mainstay of Straits Chinese jewelry.

While rose cut diamonds are not uncommon in antique rings, fiery rose cuts are rare and hence collectible.

A notable difference between Straits Chinese and Victorian rose cut diamond rings is the former were almost always set open back. Foil back was not a practice in this region.

This explains why many Straits Chinese rose cut diamond rings will display even black inclusions nonchalantly, since no foil was used to whiten the appearance of diamonds.

While Georgian or Victorian rings will ‘coax’ the diamonds to be closer to perfect, rose cut diamonds set in rings of this region have no illusion and a great myriad of good and not-so-good pieces prevail.

This ring is one with near perfect rose cuts.

This ring is also distinguished by having a bigger cluster size at 13mm.

Like Nizam rings, these rings had broad shoulders designed close to the height of the ring’s face.

The roundness of the ring is sublime; wearing the ring on the finger is reminiscent of Nizam grandeur.