-
A scarce antique Indian talismanic gold Navaratna ring dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.
A navratna is composed of nine gems that represent the nine cosmic influences from the Hindu system of astrology. This combination of nine gems has been regarded as sacred and royal in many Asian countries since ancient times. The ruby at the centre represents the sun, surrounded by diamond (or in this case, quartz) as Venus, pearl as the moon, red coral as Mars, hessonite as Ragu (the ascending lunar node), sapphire as Saturn, cat's eye chrysoberyl as Ketu (the descending lunar node), yellow sapphire as Jupiter and emerald as Mercury.
The floral gem-set cluster sits flat and curves around the finger nicely. In this example, the precious gemstones are set in closed-back bezel settings. The ring band is crafted in solid high-karat gold whilst the bezel is hollow, crafted from sheets of gold of the same fineness.
UK size K 1/2, US size 5.5
The ring weighs 7.36 grams, and tests as 20K gold. The ring is in wearable condition and all the stones are securely set, however the craftsmanship is somewhat crudely done which gives the ring its humble and unassuming appearance. It is clear that the ring was made for an ordinary person without the means to purchase the finest quality stones.
The face measures 28mm north to south, and 23mm east to west. The largest stone, the ruby in the centre, measures 7mm by 4mm on its longest axes. The yellow gold has a beautiful and warm patina.
According to Oppi Untracht in his book ‘Traditional Jewelry of India’ (1997), the proper construction of a navaratna ring can take a very long time, ‘before commissioning such a ring from a goldsmith, one first brings the selected stones to a priest, who blesses them. At an auspicious time, they are then given to a goldsmith who will set thing in high-karat gold. According to orthodox practice, when the gold setting is ready, each of the stones corresponding to a planet is set in the correct order of priority and position, at a time auspicious for the planet. If this procedure is followed, the process might take more than a year to complete.
A scarce antique Indian talismanic gold Navaratna ring dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.
A navratna is composed of nine gems that represent the nine cosmic influences from the Hindu system of astrology. This combination of nine gems has been regarded as sacred and royal in many Asian countries since ancient times. The ruby at the centre represents the sun, surrounded by diamond (or in this case, quartz) as Venus, pearl as the moon, red coral as Mars, hessonite as Ragu (the ascending lunar node), sapphire as Saturn, cat's eye chrysoberyl as Ketu (the descending lunar node), yellow sapphire as Jupiter and emerald as Mercury.
The floral gem-set cluster sits flat and curves around the finger nicely. In this example, the precious gemstones are set in closed-back bezel settings. The ring band is crafted in solid high-karat gold whilst the bezel is hollow, crafted from sheets of gold of the same fineness.
UK size K 1/2, US size 5.5
The ring weighs 7.36 grams, and tests as 20K gold. The ring is in wearable condition and all the stones are securely set, however the craftsmanship is somewhat crudely done which gives the ring its humble and unassuming appearance. It is clear that the ring was made for an ordinary person without the means to purchase the finest quality stones.
The face measures 28mm north to south, and 23mm east to west. The largest stone, the ruby in the centre, measures 7mm by 4mm on its longest axes. The yellow gold has a beautiful and warm patina.
According to Oppi Untracht in his book ‘Traditional Jewelry of India’ (1997), the proper construction of a navaratna ring can take a very long time, ‘before commissioning such a ring from a goldsmith, one first brings the selected stones to a priest, who blesses them. At an auspicious time, they are then given to a goldsmith who will set thing in high-karat gold. According to orthodox practice, when the gold setting is ready, each of the stones corresponding to a planet is set in the correct order of priority and position, at a time auspicious for the planet. If this procedure is followed, the process might take more than a year to complete.
OUR PROMISE
We will always guarantee the authenticity of every piece we sell
We offer a no questions asked 30-day return policy on all orders
All our items are sent boxed and gift wrapped with free global insured shipping
We examine, describe and photograph all our jewellery with the utmost care
