A Timeless Design

Is there anything better than one diamond, you might wonder? Well what about three? Or five? A row of beautifully matching gemstones sparkling across the base of your finger.

We see these rings throughout history and they have remained at the forefront of jewellery design for centuries, popular as both dress rings and for engagements. Of course, should diamonds not be your preference, these rings come in a range of beautiful coloured gemstones, so you are sure to find one that is perfect for you!

We first see this style in the Georgian era, often with silver cut-down settings and gold bands. This combination continued to be seen after Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837, although it was increasingly common to see them all handcrafted from yellow gold alone. These were often carved out of a single block of gold, a style known as carved half hoops and feature ornate carvings to their galleries. From scrolling swirls to palmette decoration, the rich hue of yellow gold provided the perfect backdrop for the vast array of precious gemstones that feature in them.

Another particularly sought after style is the ever fabulous gypsy set ring, which sees diamonds and coloured gems embedded into the ring. Offering a smooth and sleek aesthetic, gypsy rings are as quintessentially Victorian in style as the ornate beauty of carved half hoops!

The introduction of platinum at the turn of the twentieth century precipitated a change in the design of these rings. Finer platinum claws and detailing could be added, with gems set more individually, a move away from the previous styles. This continued through to the 1920s, when Art Deco designs saw new geometric cuts emerge. Both gems and pieces became increasingly linear in both their shape and also decorative detailing, echoing the fashions of this time.

These rings hold a timeless beauty, and can be a classic and elegant engagement ring, or indeed a bold dress piece for special occasions. With their ability to be stacked with others, perhaps a wedding ring or eternity band, these rings lend themselves to versatility and are surely a must have for everyone's jewellery box!