DATE: Edwardian, c.1910

Stunning Edwardian cluster ring, the round head set with diamonds and featuring a millegrain star motif. Incredibly fine craftsmanship taking full advantage of the strength of the platinum to create delicate and intricate designs. It's set with old European and single cut diamonds with double shoulder accents and an 18k yellow gold band. Well proportioned and sits low against the finger making it ideal for everyday wear or as alternative engagement ring.

Prior to the late 19th century jewellers didn't find it practical to use platinum - while it was workable, it was inconsistent and prone to cracking. Scientists in the 1800s discovered that naturally occurring platinum was actually made up of six noble metals: platinum, iridium, palladium, ruthenium, osmium, and rhodium. Since each has a different density, mailability, and hardness they're not all ideal for constructing jewellery, and it was pretty much hit or miss for jewellers working with (unbeknown to them) alloys of differing ratios of the metals. The first three listed above were adopted by jewellers, and the latter three are used mainly in industry. Always ahead of the game, in 1890, Cartier introduced an all-platinum line in its iconic garland style and incorporating millegrain detailing.

STONES 

Old European & Single Cut Diamonds - total weight approx. 0.40ct

MEASUREMENTS 

Head: 12.5 x 12.5mm

Width of band: 1.8mm

WEIGHT 

2.9g

MARKS 

Stamped 18ct

CONDITION 

Very good