How do I care for my antique diamond swirl ring?

Clean your ring gently using warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove everyday oils from beneath the stones. Avoid harsh chemical dips, especially if the piece incorporates softer gems like pearls or rubies. Have a professional jeweller inspect the claw settings periodically to ensure the platinum or gold secure the diamonds firmly in place.

Are these rings suitable for everyday wear?

Platinum and 18ct gold provide robust foundations suitable for daily use when handled with reasonable care. However, rings featuring pearls require extra caution to prevent scratching or moisture damage. Remove your jewellery during heavy manual tasks or sports to protect delicate millegrain work and stone settings from impact.

How can I tell an Edwardian ring from an Art Deco one?

Edwardian rings lean towards lacy, garland-style motifs with softer curves, delicate piercing, and extensive use of millegrain decoration. Platinum-topped gold is a hallmark of this period. Art Deco rings introduce stronger geometric contrast, bolder lines, and sharper angles, even within swirling or spiral arrangements. The mountings often utilise solid platinum to achieve striking monochromatic effects.

What is an old cut diamond?

An old cut diamond is an antique stone shaped by hand before modern machine-cutting standards were established in the twentieth century. These stones typically feature smaller tables, higher crowns, and open culets. They produce a distinct, warm glow under low lighting rather than the intense brilliance associated with modern brilliant cut diamonds.