RAREST Custom-Made Domed Opal/14k Minaret Ring, 6.9 Grams, c.1890!

Dating conservatively to c.1890, but perhaps decades older, this is one of the MOST unusual rings I have had the pleasure to list in my 8+ years on Ruby Lane, and it is perfect for ladies who love their jewelry to make a unique statement!

This antique gold ring is likely Middle-Eastern in origin, and I believe that it was custom-made, as it bears no hallmarks, but is exquisitely crafted! Wrought from 14k yellow gold (tested), this ring looks a bit like a beehive, but likely represents the dome or minaret of an Eastern place of worship. The dome rises 3/4" above the shank, and is crafted in the round. It is set with 13 small but incredibly fiery opal cabochons, ranging in size from 3.5 - 1.5 mm each! The opals are embedded into the gold, and are open at the back. I did not know that opals this small could be so colorful - there are is a range of bright color here, from blue to green to red to orange!

The shank of this ring is a simple, substantial hoop. Weighing in at 6.9 grams, this is a hefty jewel which I guarantee you will not see anywhere else! It really looks lovely on the hand, and is SO unusual! It is in superb, all-original condition. The only sign of wear is one replaced opal (well-matched) and a miniscule fleabite to the opal on the top of the dome (considered acceptable wear and not in danger of cracking). This ring has not been cleaned, and the gold boasts a delicious bloom that only the passing of 120+ years can impart!

This ring is currently a size 5 1/4, and does not appear to ever have suffered re-sizing, but the plainness of the shank would allow for easy re-sizing by a good bench jeweler for little cost. If you love the finest in antique jewelry but are looking for a real statement piece, you could not do better than this jewel! It would also make a wonderful holiday gift for any lady who loves the unusual in antique gem-set rings. This ring will be shipped in a gift box suitable for storing or giving. Do not miss this wonderful, one-of-a-kind ring; I do not expect to find another, and US shipping is FREE!

Item ID: 2019