Buccellati diamond cluster ring. Set to centre with a round old cut diamond in an open back claw setting with an approximate weight of 2.90 carats, further set with fifty four round eight-cut diamonds in open back grain settings with a combined weight of 1.20 carats. The total approximate diamond weight is 4.10 carats, to an impressive architectural bombe cluster design featuring intricate openwork, finely carved goldwork details on a textured surface and fancy shape open backholing, leading to broad integrated shoulders and flowing through to a solid shank. Marked 18 carat yellow and white gold, engraved 'Italy..96' to interior, signed 'BUCCELLATI', Italian, circa 1940, accompanied by original fitted box.

Formally founded in 1919, Mario Buccellati opened his first showroom in Milan, a stone’s throw from the La Scala Opera House, whose rich and famous patrons were the perfect clientele for such jewels. With a rich family tradition of fine artisans, beginning with his ancestor Contardo Buccellati in 1750, it was not long before word spread locally of the high-quality, beautifully ornate creations emerging from this mysterious new master.

Exhibiting at the Madrid Exposition in 1920, Mario Buccellati caught the public’s attention when he hurled an expensive compact out of a window when a woman asked for a discount, shouting, "I am not a tradesman!” The next day, hundreds of curious spectators turned up to look at his booth, curious to see the unknown jeweller’s pieces. It was a complete sellout. Buccellati was then invited to exhibit his work at a solo show, where the Spanish aristocracy came in force, including the royal family who became lifelong clients.

Taking inspiration from Italy’s art and architecture, with particular emphasis on the Renaissance of the 15th and 16th centuries, Buccellati’s jewellery is celebrated for their ornate engravings, unique textures and for being a true work of art from every angle.

This ring is in excellent condition.