Sia | Late-Victorian Six-Stone Opal & Pearl Ring in 9k Gold, Antique c.1890s

The six round crystal opals mounted in this historic late-19th century ring—presumed to be from White Cliffs, Australia, due in combination to their quality and the ring's age—shimmer with predominantly green and blue colors.  Two of the opals, specifically, march to the beat of their own drum: one mounted in the center column is considerably brighter than the rest, its neon green piercing by comparison, and one mounted in a corner position gently glows with pinkish red fire unlike any of the others.

Though no hallmarks denoting gold purity remain in the ring's shank, the dainty Victorian mounting tests thoroughly to be 9k yellow gold, indicating British origin.  Four small, silvery gray pearls line the center of the ring between the two rows of opals—upon close examination, at least three these pearls appear to be replacements rather than original, a conclusion drawn by their size and shape.  They sit epoxy-set on top of the mounting, with one on the end appearing to have shifted more than the others during this process; though they are secure upon inspection, with epoxy being the industry-accepted method of setting pearls in antique settings, we recommend wearing and treating this relic with care, removing it before washing hands or harsh activity.

Default ring size 7.00 US.

More Information

The Center Stones: Natural Light Crystal Opal, solid

• stone count: 6
• attributed country of origin: White Cliffs
  
• attributed mining locale: Australia
  
• average brightness of color play: B2 of 5, one stone B3.5
• average body tone: N8
• shape: round cabochon cuts
• average stone diameter (millimeters): 3mm
• average stone diameter (inches): 0.1"
• average play of color description: most predominantly green/blue, one pinkish red

The Accent Stones: Pearl, natural

• stone count: 4
• average diameter (millimeters): 1.8mm
• color: silvery gray
• additional notes: at least 3 of 4 pearls appear to be replacements, possibly all 4

The Setting: Women's Dainty Victorian-Era Six-Stone Ring

• metal: 9k yellow gold, solid
• top of ring width: 7.43mm (0.3")
• ring height from finger: 4.00mm (0.15")
• bottom of shank width: 1.80mm
• ring weight: 1.90 grams
• default ring size: 7.00 US