How do I care for an old cut diamond?

Old cut diamonds benefit from gentle cleaning with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled brush to remove everyday oils. Avoid harsh ultrasonic cleaners which can loosen older hand-set mountings. Store the ring in an individual fabric-lined compartment to prevent the metal and stones from scratching against other items in your collection.

Are these rings suitable for daily wear?

These pieces are constructed from durable metals like 18ct gold and platinum, making them suitable for regular wear when treated with reasonable care. However, the intricate metalwork of the gallery should be inspected periodically by a professional. It is advisable to remove the ring during heavy manual labour, gardening, or weightlifting to protect the delicate openwork and claw settings from impact.

How can I tell the period of a ring?

The period of a ring is identified through a combination of stone cutting styles, metal purity hallmarks, and the specific fabrication techniques used in the gallery and shank. Old cut diamonds and hand-carved platinum or yellow gold work typically point towards the Victorian, Edwardian, or turn of the century eras. Comparing the mounting style and any maker's marks against historical jewellery records helps narrow down the exact decade of manufacture.