A floral design long associated with faithful love and devotion. Sweet from across the room but really intended to be better up close. True to Victorian symbolism, the daisy halo has that radiance. I do love the refreshing burning ruby center, as I come across most of these designs completely studded with diamonds.
A quick provenance note for fellow detail-lovers: there appear to be two separate “18ct” gold hallmarks, which suggests the stamps were applied long after the ring was made. The band has developed a beautiful patina, and when I look closely at the joins between the head and the shank, I do believe the ring is antique—though I can’t say with total certainty that the shank is original to the piece. Either way, one of my favorite parts (aside from that bright floral halo) is the sturdy, confidence-giving feel of putting the ring on. The overall construction feels made for real wear, steady and not precarious.
Specification
Ring size 9
Early Victorian era, 1830s
18k rose gold
Band 3mm with a gradual 2.33mm taper
Natural ruby, in a deep magenta color (daylight more pink and indoors a wine red) 4mm 0.35ct
Old Mine Cuts (super puffy and very, very warm!) 0.77ct
3.86g
Care/Clean: Basic (gentle soap, soft rush and avoid harsh chemicals)
Condition: The ruby has a tiny surface scrape that’s only visible under magnification. A couple of the diamonds show very small fleabites, and one diamond has a fine surface scratch only visible by 10x magnification.
