A beautiful art deco piece, this ring features a die-struck construction and a transitional cut diamond - both elements that came to be eclipsed by more modern counterparts as the 20th century progressed. Two halves of the ring are shaped by striking the sheet of gold between the molded dies - creating light and intricate designs that are at once dense and durable. As the creation of the dies was expensive and time-consuming, the process fell out of favour with jewelry manufacturers, many of whom preferred casting their production lines. The transitional cut diamond, as well, enjoyed but a brief popularity - as the name indicates, the cut found its heyday between the antique Old European cut and the modern round brilliant, as stones began to be cut more precisely to adapt to incandescent lighting. This particular stone shows characteristics of the Old European style (a flowery facet pattern directly under the table, which sits higher and smaller than modern stones) as well as those of the brilliant (a crisp circular shape and pinpoint culet), giving the diamond scintillation and personality alike.

The lifted setting and the delicate filigree-style metalwork allow plenty of light into the bright white stone, while a gentle curve in the profile means the ring would stack well with a band. The star-like setting on the face of the ring and milgrained octagonal frame work together to create an illusion setting, meant to make the diamond appear to be a full carat rather than the 1/3 it's estimated to be. An absolutely beautiful piece, this ring would make a dreamy engagement ring or right hand ring alike - light, airy, and full of history.

Details:
• 18k white gold, stamped
• Size 6 and sizeable
• 1 transitional cut diamond estimated at 0.33ct, VS, E-F
• Width of ring at face is 8.2mm, rise off finger is 5.9mm; band tapers to a width of 0.9mm and thickness of 1.1mm
• 2.1g