How do I care for an antique ring?

Clean your jewellery gently using warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh ultrasonic cleaners that can damage fragile gems or aged settings. Store pieces separately in lined boxes to prevent softer stones like opals, pearls, or emeralds from scratching against harder diamonds and sapphires.

Can I wear an old cut ring daily?

Many people wear these rings every day, provided the setting and shank remain thick and secure. Platinum and 18ct gold mountings offer good durability for daily living. Take the ring off during heavy manual work, gardening, or swimming to protect the antique prongs and softer coloured gemstones from impact.

How do I know the period of a ring?

Examine the mounting style, metal choices, and cutting techniques of the gemstones. Georgian pieces often feature closed-back foils, while Edwardian designs favour platinum and delicate piercing. Assay office marks, maker's stamps, and London or Birmingham hallmarks inside the band provide precise documentation for dating British-made items.

What is the difference between old mine and old European cuts?

Old mine cut diamonds possess a squarish or cushion outline with a high crown and deep pavilion, typical of Georgian and early Victorian jewellery. Old European cut diamonds, emerging in the late nineteenth and Edwardian eras, feature a rounder girdle and smaller culet while retaining the hand-shaped facet charm.