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A rare and important antique gold and enamel eternity ring, circa 1800, set with thirteen rose-cut diamonds and crafted in 22K gold. This exquisite piece was made in the royal workshops of Siam (modern-day Thailand), where such jewels were worn by members of the extended royal family and aristocracy during court ceremonies.The ring is beautifully decorated in red and green enamel - the traditional royal colours of Siam enamelling - arranged in floral and circular motifs around the entire band. Each diamond is set in a raised rubover collet, surrounded by intricate enamelling typical of court workmanship in Bangkok between 1750 and 1850.During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Siamese court became renowned for its opulence. Kings Mongkut (Rama IV) and Chulalongkorn (Rama V) were both highly polygamous, with more than 150 royal children between them. The proliferation of minor palaces and royal households created immense demand for aristocratic status jewellery and ceremonial jewellery, and Bangkok’s royal goldsmiths became among the most skilled and productive in Asia. Jewels such as this were also used as diplomatic gifts to foreign dignitaries and regional princes.The presence of rings in the European art market today is explained by the gradual dispersal of Thai royal possessions in the 20th century. As the number of royals contracted and titles were lost, many once-princely families became private citizens. Many relocated to Europe during the dissolution of the absolute monarchy, particularly Switzerland and France in the 1930s–40s, bringing personal heirlooms with them. This ring, among several others in our collection, is almost certainly one such survival.Siam (Thailand), c.1800Materials: 22K gold, enamel, rose-cut diamondsWeight: 7.94gWidth: 3mmRing size: UK M½ / US 6.25Condition: Very good antique condition; most enamel intact and original, with minor wear consistent with age.A remarkable and wearable jewel from the royal courts of old Siam - rich with colour, craftsmanship, and history.
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