How do I clean my ring safely?

Warm soapy water and a very soft brush are best for lifting daily oils from beneath the flush-set stones without harming the antique gold. Harsh chemical dips and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, as they can loosen older settings or damage softer gems like opals and emeralds.

Can an edwardian star gypsy ring be resized?

Most skilled jewellers can adjust the size of these gold bands by adding or removing a small section of metal from the back of the shank. Care must be taken near the shoulders so that any engraving or the flush stone settings themselves remain entirely undistorted during heating.

How do I date an antique ring?

Hallmarks stamped inside the band provide official assay office symbols, date letters, and purity marks that pinpoint the exact year of manufacture. Stylistic clues like hand-engraved starbursts, stone cuts, and metal purities such as 15ct gold further narrow down the production era.