Latest Vintage Piece

0.60ct. tw. I1-HI Art Deco antique diamond ring (1 chipped), 18kt., sz.10.5. $1,200.00 CAD. 131-00185

They say diamonds are forever, and it is thought that natural diamonds are between 3 to 4 billion years old, but they are not indestructible. Diamonds have directions of grain, similar to wood. In certain directions it’s possible the cleave or split them along their grain as you would split a log. Before people learned to cut and polish diamonds with diamond dust, cleaving them was the only way they could be fashioned into something that sparkled. This antique ring was likely hand crafted 100 years ago during early Art Deco period. During its long life perhaps it was exposed to a significant impact at just the right angle to cause the centre diamond to get badly chipped. This could have happening a month ago or maybe 80 years ago, we’ll never know but somehow the centre diamond became damaged. It is still secure in the setting and sparkles, but it does look a slightly dull compared to the others. There is a good chance the original owner never even realized it was damaged. This ring was likely a cherished item that stayed with the same owner for a lifetime. By the shape of the inner contour of the decorative gallery we know this 18 karat white gold ring started off life as an average size 6 to 7. At some point in the past it was made significantly larger to its current size 10 1/2. The original owner’s fingers likely got larger with age or perhaps they developed arthritis, so the ring was made larger to accommodate. Other than the chipped centre diamond, the ring is in very good condition, showing excellent detail and fine pierced filigree work. As far as the damaged diamond goes, we will replace this diamond at no charge for the next owner. We likely have a genuine antique European cut diamond in stock of the same quality as the four others that are well a matched I1-HI quality. At the same time we hope to bring it back down in size to a more average 5 1/2 to 7 1/2. This would  relieve stress on the filigree gallery and generally make the ring more structurally durable. With a new diamond and size adjustment there is no reason why this ring can’t last the rest of your life. These styles from the 1920-1930s are universally admired and are always steady sellers in our estate department. Including a new diamond and sizing down, this antique 18 karat dinner ring is estate priced at $1,200.00 CAD. Stock #131-00185.

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