Antique Victorian Diamond Heart Ring

Valued at R40,200. Includes an independent valuation certificate (see photo attached). 

Antique Victorian diamond ring with a heart-and-ribbon-design from the Early Victorian Period (1837-1860) and diamonds cut and pav set in a style from the Mid-Victorian Period (1861-1885). The ring is therefore most likely circa 1870's. It is made from 12ct yellow gold, with an engraved shank and a "closed back" (behind the diamonds) in the earlier style. Fourteen round old cut diamonds are set in the gold and silver-topped.
Total diamond weight: 0.98 carat.
Size: M/N
Weight: 5.3g

Notes: Diamonds were found in South Africa in 1867 and the Kimberley mine established in 1871. Diamonds were not valued according to modern standards of colour, clarity, cut and carat - introduced in 1953. Antique diamonds were rare and often had flaws and discolouration. The charm and value of an antique piece lies in the unique historic design and hand crafted attention to detail.