How do I care for a 1910s ring?

Wear your ring with care, removing it during heavy manual work or gardening to protect the delicate claw settings and millegrain edges from wear. Platinum and gold benefit from gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical dips, particularly if the ring contains softer gems like opals or natural pearls. Periodic checks by a jeweller ensure the stones remain secure in their antique mounts.

Are these rings suitable for daily wear?

These pieces were built for everyday life in the early twentieth century, using durable metals like platinum and 18ct gold. However, their age means they require a more mindful approach than modern jewellery. Prongs and settings can thin over decades of use. Regular inspection helps preserve the integrity of the original craftsmanship while you enjoy wearing it daily.

How can I tell a 1910s ring from a later style?

Look for the characteristic use of old cut diamonds, which feature smaller tables and deeper pavilions than modern stones. The presence of platinum-topped yellow gold and fine millegrain work points directly to the Edwardian era. Art Nouveau flowing lines or early George V hallmarks, such as those from Birmingham, also help anchor the piece to the 1910s decade.

What coloured stones appear in these rings?

Alongside diamonds, jewellers of this decade frequently set vibrant blue sapphires, rich red rubies, and Colombian emeralds. Opals and natural pearls also feature prominently in cluster and toi et moi designs. These coloured gems are typically secured alongside old cut diamonds, offering a contrast of tone and texture characteristic of the period.