Art Deco 18k White Gold, Old Mine Diamond, and Emerald Filigree Ring
Created during the height of the Art Deco movement circa 1920, this exquisite filigree ring reflects a transformative moment in both jewelry design and modern history. Emerging in the years following the First World War, Art Deco jewelry embodied a newfound spirit of progress, liberation, and cosmopolitan sophistication. Inspired by the bold geometry of Parisian architecture, the discovery of ancient treasures, and the machine-age fascination with precision and symmetry, jewelers of the era abandoned the flowing naturalism of Edwardian design in favor of crisp lines and striking contrasts.
This ring, masterfully crafted in 18k white gold with a later 14k white gold shank, showcases the intricate pierced filigree work that became a hallmark of the period’s finest ateliers. Its airy openwork and geometric detailing demonstrate the technical innovation made possible by white gold and platinum settings, metals newly favored in the 1920s for their cool brilliance and ability to enhance the fire of gemstones. At the center rests an old mine cut diamond weighing approximately 0.30 carat, graded J color and I1 clarity. Unlike the precision-cut diamonds of today, old mine stones were cut largely by hand in candlelight, giving them a softer, romantic scintillation cherished by collectors for its antique character and individuality.
Flanking the center stone are two calibre-cut emeralds, meticulously shaped to fit seamlessly within the design — a sophisticated technique highly prized during the Art Deco era for its precision and elegance. The vivid green emeralds create a dramatic contrast against the icy white gold and diamond, echoing the bold color pairings fashionable among the era’s avant-garde designers. Rich in craftsmanship and cultural history, this ring stands as a timeless artifact of the Roaring Twenties — an age defined by glamour, artistic innovation, and enduring refinement.
• Circa 1920
• 18k white gold with 14k white gold shank, stamped 18k
• 1 old mine cut diamond, weighing approximately 0.30 carat, graded J color, I1 clarity, accented by two calibre cut emeralds
• Size 6 ½, resizable
• Estimated gross weight: 1.9 grams
• Very good vintage condition, wear in the form of minor scratches, wear on facet junctions, wear appropriate with age