Tantalizing Late Georgian "Toi et Moi" Ring c. 1835

Caroline's Jewelry with a Past is offering a late Georgian era ring made of 10kt. rosy gold, circa 1835. This ring features a pair of round, faceted and prong set, natural red Rubellite tourmaline set in a "Toi et Moi" setting surrounded by natural half pearls. The tourmalines are 2.7 mm. each. The swirling natural pearl accents features 18 half pearls. They range in size from 1mm. to 1.75 mm. The ring is a size 7+ and can be re-sized. The piece weighs 2.3 grams. The ring comes in a very tatty old box.

A “Toi et Moi” ring means "you and me” in French. It is a particular style of ring which features a swirling, coiled or twisted band with two gemstones, side by side. A very romantic style, it symbolizes two people meeting as one. This type of ring was often used as an engagement or wedding ring.

Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, green, yellow, pink and orange, among others. Red or ruby tourmaline is referred to as "Rubellite". Although tourmaline has been used as a gemstone for centuries, it was often confused with other stones. The Georgian and Victorians loved symbolism and their jewelry represented hidden meanings. Tourmaline was believed to inspire creativity. The rarest member of the tourmaline family is the pink tourmaline.

The gold content of this piece has been tested using standard accepted testing methods, such as acid testing. The tourmaline and pearls were measured for size using a standard jeweler's caliper. The pearls are assumed to be natural since the piece pre-dates cultured pearls. The stones were not removed from the piece to determine exact carat weight.