Edwardian opal diamond ring

Edwardian opal diamond ring in 18 karat yellow gold and platinum. Antique ring with a large oval cabochon-cut precious opal. The opal is surrounded by 25 rose-cut diamonds in a platinum setting. The shoulders of the ring are decorated with stylized leaves in platinum. The opal is translucent and has a beautiful play of blue, green, yellow and orange colors. Antique ring, Edwardian period, circa 1920, France.

Eagle head hallmark (French state hallmark for 18 karat gold).

Finger size: 55 UE or 7.25 US (can be changed)

Dimensions: 23 x 14 mm

Estimated opal weight: 3.8 carats

Condition: scratches from use, small dent in the gold underneath

Weight : 4.39 gr

Gemology and beliefs: Opals come in various types, with noble opals being the kind that exhibits play-of-color. This captivating effect is caused by tiny, uniformly sized spheres of silica. When light hits these spheres and is refracted, it produces a dazzling display of colors on the opal’s surface. In contrast, common opals lack this play-of-color, as their spheres are disordered and of varying sizes, giving them a milky appearance. Opals have been associated with the power of invisibility in folklore, earning them the title “Patronus furum” (patron of thieves) during the late Middle Ages