18K Yellow Gold Five-Stone Ruby and Diamond Carved Half-Hoop Ring
Ring (Five-Stone Half-Hoop) · Yellow Gold (standard alloy with silver/copper for a buttery warm tone)
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold. Known for its rich color and durability balance.
Type
Ring (Five-Stone Half-Hoop)
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold. Known for its rich color and durability balance.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard alloy with silver/copper for a buttery warm tone)
Weight
Estimated at 3.5 to 5.0 grams based on the solid band construction and wide gallery.
Description
A beautiful antique 18-karat yellow gold five-stone ring featuring alternating natural rubies and diamonds. The ring showcases a classically carved 'half-hoop' gallery with scrolls on the profile, leading to a smooth, comfortable shank. This style was highly favored during the late 19th century as a token of affection.
Key Features
Hand-carved scrollwork on the gallery; five-stone alternating layout; antique prong settings; high-karat gold saturation.
Color & Finish
Polished yellow gold with an aged patina; the finish is smooth on the shank with ornate scrollwork/carving on the gallery sides.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '18ct', '18K', or '750' on the inner shank; may contain British hallmarks including a crown and '18'.
Dimensions Estimate
U.S. Ring Size 6-7 estimate; band width approx 2.5mm tapering to 6mm at the face.
Gemstones & Inlays
Three alternating round/oval rubies and two small accent diamonds. Rubies appear to be deep pinkish-red (pigeon blood hue) and appear to be prong or grain set.
Clasp & Closure
N/A (Continuous ring band)
Chain & Links
Solid D-shape band profile; sturdy construction with integrated gemstone gallery.
Craftsmanship Details
The gallery displays evidence of hand-carving or precision casting with hand-chasing; prong work is integrated into the scroll design for a seamless transition.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic yellow gold hue of 18K purity; presence of '750' or '18' stamp; construction methods consistent with early 20th-century casting and hand-finishing.
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin, potentially British or French workshop based on the carved gallery style.
Era & Period
Late Victorian or Edwardian transition (circa 1890-1915) characterized by the 'half-hoop' carved gallery style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900; approximately 120 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represented marital status or romantic commitment; the red ruby symbolized passion and the diamond symbolized eternity.
Condition Notes
Very Good antique condition; some thinning of the band at the base from wear; stones show minor facet wear under magnification.
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,400 USD depending on the origin of the rubies and clarity of the diamonds; value is split between gold melt and collector antique premium.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners as rubies can have internal fractures and antique settings can be fragile.
Similar Items
Victorian 'Dearest' rings, Edwardian target rings, or modern reproduction ruby eternity bands.
Interesting Facts
Alternating stone rings were often given as 'Dearest' or 'Acrostic' jewelry pieces in the Victorian era to send hidden romantic messages.