18ct Yellow Gold Sapphire & Diamond Navette Edwardian Ring

This antique ring comprises of three exquisite cornflower blue sapphires. In the shape of an elegant marquise cluster, this ring consists of a large oval mixed cut sapphire, set centrally to the ring. It is flanked on either side by two smaller oval sapphires, of similar size. These cornflower blue sapphires have been accented by four old mine cut diamonds. Either side of the central oval sapphire, these diamonds have been arrayed in a two-row pattern. The sapphires and diamond have been set within a vintage bead and bright setting. The polished solid gallery of this ring compliments the marquise design. The ring is mounted within hallmarked 18ct yellow gold.

Jewellery Odyssey:

The late-Victorian Period was popular for boat shaped clusters, themes of filigree and the use of more delicate settings. Which heavily inspired the Edwardian Period, whereby jewellery became more refined; in the fashioning of stones and simultaneously, in the design of jewellery. The term ‘navette’ was coined, due to the shape of the rings setting, resembling the keel of a boat. The elegance of a doubly pointed cluster, elongated the wearers finger whilst being both bold and extravagant. The navette shaped ring would be adorned with a cluster of various gemstones in different shapes and sizes and was very popular in the Victorian and Art Deco Periods. Alternative variations and approaches to this design, saw the navette positioned horizontally across the finger, instead of vertically down.

Gem Lore:

Sapphire - derives from the Latin word ‘saphirus’ and Greek word ‘sapheiros’, which simply translates to the colour blue. This gemstone is referenced frequently throughout Ancient Literature. From being the celestial material given to Moses, that sacredly held the inscription of the Ten Commandments. The ancient Persians, who believed the earth to rest on a giant sapphire, which was then reflected in the sky. To Helen of Troy, who was thought to possess a large star sapphire, the reason behind her desirability. In most recent times, sapphire has come to symbolise wisdom and creativity.

Diamond - derives from the Greek word ‘adamas’, which translates to ‘invincible’. Today, the meaning somewhat refers, to the gemstones excellent hardness (ranking 10 on Mohs' scale), hence diamonds are highly resistant to be scratched or abraded by another material, other than diamonds itself. Moreover, diamonds possess the magical phenomenon of fire, which relies on the facetted gemstones ability to disperse (split) light, into a rainbow of colours.

The ancient Egyptians thought diamonds symbolised life, and the Pharaohs were known to place the gemstone in the centre of an ankh cross. Whereas, the ancient Greeks believed diamonds to be the tears of the gods or broken splinters from fallen stars. Alternatively, in ancient Roman literature it is noted that Cupids arrows were ‘diamond tipped’, maybe one of the first references that associates the gemstone with love.

Request Current Ring Size To Be Altered:

If the current ring size listed, is not the ring size you require. Please fill out the form below, requesting the size you need and we will respond within 2 working days. We will answer any question you may have, estimate lead times and let you know you how much this alteration will cost.

Please note, that whilst ring sizes (depending on the setting and style of ring) can safely and easily be sized up or down, one to four sizes. Rings were generally made to the scale of their current size. Requesting a ring size a lot smaller in size then the current size, can make the bottom band of the ring become oval in shape. When making rings larger in size, our highly skilled workshop will seamlessly add a piece of metal, into the bottom of the ring. If a size is requested that will impede the structural durability of the ring, than depending on the setting and style, alternative options such as: half shank or soldered beads, can be suggested.

Remember there is only about a 1mm difference between each whole ring size. For more information on what to consider when finding your size, read our blog: "The Factors Affecting Ring Size”.

Jewellery Care Precautions:

Avoid direct contact with: perfume, lotions, skincare, hairspray / other chemicals. Remove, your jewellery: when showering, swimming (as both chlorine and saltwater will react with metals), washing your hands / using hand sanitisers, before going to bed or when participating in physical activities (going to the gym, exercising, gardening, housework etc….).

Beware, metals may tarnish over time due to oxygen contact and natural body oils. Prevent items from being exposed to moisture and direct sunlight, for long periods. Store jewellery in a dry place away from humidity, in a pouch/jewellery box and keep each piece separated from each other. Care, for your jewellery by cleaning with a soft dry cloth.

Yellow Gold:

Gold as an element, in its purest form will not tarnish, but gold used in jewellery has been alloyed with other metals, to increase durability. These metals have properties that when in contact with oxygen, chemicals, oils or other substances - will result in a surface tarnish or damage and corrosion. Even the pH level of you skin and the natural oils it produces, can tarnish your gold jewellery.

To prevent your gold jewellery from tarnishing or even disintegrating, avoid exposure to household chemicals, bleaches, toothpaste, baking soda and other cleaning abrasives. Wearing jewellery in places where perfumes, hairsprays, body lotions have been applied on your body, will increase tarnishing. Wear your jewellery after the products have been applied. To clean your gold jewellery, use a mild soap with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. For professional cleaning, our workshop can polish your jewellery back to life.

Sapphire, Corundum:

Hardness: 9 | Toughness: Excellent | Stability: Very Good

Low Caution: A very durable gemstone, generally it is safe to use in; Jewellery Cleaners (dips, ultrasonic and steam cleaners).

Gemmological Observation: Corundums are a very durable gemstone. However, if lead-glass filled or heavily fractured, you will need to avoid: Chemicals (acid, detergents), Direct Heat, Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic, steam cleaners).

Diamond:

Hardness: 10 | Toughness: Good | Stability: Excellent

Low Caution: A very durable gemstone, generally it is safe to use in; Jewellery Cleaners (Dips, Ultrasonic, Steam Cleaners).

Gemmological Observation: Diamonds have excellent hardness, this means only a diamond can scratch/abrade another diamond. To avoid scratches, store your diamond set jewellery separately. Diamonds only have good toughness, as they possess perfect cleavage. This means that if knocked in the wrong direction, the diamond can cleave/fracture. Whilst wearing, you will need to avoid: Sudden Impact (sharp knocks). If the diamond is heavily fractured, you will need to avoid using: Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic, steam cleaners).