Description

Vintage Ruby Solitaire Ring

c. Victorian Era

Ruby is my birthstone. Maybe that’s why I have such a love of the stone. But I always like to think it’s be cause of the rich color and because it’s unique. Not in its chemical make up – it’s just really a sapphire, after all (it’s corundum, just like the blue versions). But it’s unique enough that someone decided that the red sapphires should be called rubies (there’s your fun fact for the day). So when I had an empty Victorian mounting and an old cut ruby stone that was the perfect fit, I couldn’t help but marry them to make this Vintage Ruby Solitaire Ring.

What We Love About It:

Vintage Ruby Solitaire Ring

I’ve already mentioned my love for the ruby in the center. But the ring mounting is also quite unique. I’ve not ever seen one quite like it. This ring could be an alternative engagement ring (royals have used rubies for engagement rings for years). A present for a July baby or just a ring because you love it (all of the above are great reasons to wear it).

The Deets:

It’s sometimes hard to date a piece to a specific group of years, but based on design elements, we are estimating this ring is from the Victorian era. It’s crafted in 10kt yellow gold and has a unique set of “prongs” (four of them) that hold the old cut ruby. The ruby is 1.45ct and a modified round cut. It’s got great color, but like most rubies, it does have some inclusions in the stone (a visibly clear, untreated ruby is worth multiple times over that of an internally flawless diamond of the same carat weight). We don’t have an origin designation on the ruby but judging by its characteristics, it’s most likely Thai in origin. The ring weighs 1.5g and is currently a size 5 US but can be sized up or down several sizes by our jeweler (options listed in this post) or by yours. 

I’d love to see this ring as an engagement ring for so many reasons, and not just because rubies are extremely hard (second only to diamonds) but also because it carries a simple elegance and a touch of regal notes. I mean, I’d say yes, if someone proposed to me with it! 😉