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A scarce late Mughal period gold and ruby ring dating from mid-19th century India, circa 1850.
The cabochon cut ruby gemstone weighs 1ct and is set in an open-backed belcher mount. The ring is crafted in high-karat gold and the shoulders are decorated with engraved floral motifs.
The way in which the ruby has been cut is very typical of Indian gem cutting, more specifically from the 18th and 19th centuries, where they would try to preserve as much of the gemstone as possible; consequently, the gems are cut and faceted in a slightly uneven, naturalistic dome-shape.
Although the ring was made in India, it shows some European influence in its design; notably with the open claws used for gem-setting which was typical of European rings of the early 19th century. The influence of the West on Mughal jewels can also be seen in metalworking technology introduced by European jewellers, who were welcomed at court and in some cases went on to play a role in imperial workshops. However the craftsmanship of this design, from the engraving style to the way the gem was cut reveals that the ring has been crafted with an Indian hand.
This ring is unmarked but tests as 22K gold. Despite being about 160 years old, it remains in great condition and the high-karat gold mount still retains its alluring shine and buttery glow.
UK size O, US size 7
The ring weighs 6 grams. The front of the ring measures 10mm across, whilst the back measures 2.5mm wide.
A scarce late Mughal period gold and ruby ring dating from mid-19th century India, circa 1850.
The cabochon cut ruby gemstone weighs 1ct and is set in an open-backed belcher mount. The ring is crafted in high-karat gold and the shoulders are decorated with engraved floral motifs.
The way in which the ruby has been cut is very typical of Indian gem cutting, more specifically from the 18th and 19th centuries, where they would try to preserve as much of the gemstone as possible; consequently, the gems are cut and faceted in a slightly uneven, naturalistic dome-shape.
Although the ring was made in India, it shows some European influence in its design; notably with the open claws used for gem-setting which was typical of European rings of the early 19th century. The influence of the West on Mughal jewels can also be seen in metalworking technology introduced by European jewellers, who were welcomed at court and in some cases went on to play a role in imperial workshops. However the craftsmanship of this design, from the engraving style to the way the gem was cut reveals that the ring has been crafted with an Indian hand.
This ring is unmarked but tests as 22K gold. Despite being about 160 years old, it remains in great condition and the high-karat gold mount still retains its alluring shine and buttery glow.
UK size O, US size 7
The ring weighs 6 grams. The front of the ring measures 10mm across, whilst the back measures 2.5mm wide.
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