How do I care for an edwardian style sapphire ring?

Clean your jewellery gently using warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove everyday oils from beneath the cluster setting. Avoid harsh chemical dips that might compromise older gold or platinum mounts. Store each ring individually in a fabric-lined box to prevent the diamonds from scratching softer metals or adjacent sapphire surfaces.

What is the difference between original and revival pieces?

Original pieces date precisely from the reign of Edward VII and the immediate surrounding years, displaying period-specific hand fabrication methods. Revival pieces adopt the same aesthetic vocabulary but were manufactured decades later. Both categories utilise similar materials like platinum and 18ct gold, yet expert examination of hallmarks and internal wear helps distinguish the exact decade of manufacture.

Can I wear an edwardian style sapphire ring every day?

Sapphire and diamond rank highly on the Mohs hardness scale, making them durable enough for regular daily wear when mounted securely. However, the delicate openwork galleries on antique mounts require mindful handling during heavy physical tasks. Taking the ring off before swimming, gardening, or exercising protects the intricate metal settings and prevents accidental stone loss.

What do unheated sapphires mean for collectors?

Unheated sapphires have not undergone thermal enhancement to improve their natural colour or clarity. This lack of intervention is documented by gemological reports and adds desirability for collectors. Such stones display their natural mineral growth characteristics directly, retaining the exact geological properties formed within the earth.