How do I care for an old cut ruby ring?

Clean these rings gently using warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh ultrasonic cleaners that might damage antique settings or treated stones. Store them separately in fabric pouches to prevent the harder diamonds from scratching the softer ruby and surrounding gold.

Can I wear an antique ruby ring daily?

Rubies possess high natural hardness, making them suitable for regular wear when secured in sturdy gold or platinum mountings. Prongs and gallery work on delicate Victorian or Edwardian pieces should be inspected periodically by a professional jeweller to prevent stone loss.

How do I distinguish Victorian from Art Deco rings?

Victorian rings frequently utilise rich yellow gold, ornate floral motifs, and gypsy or cluster arrangements with warm organic lines. Art Deco examples lean towards platinum settings, geometric symmetry, and sharp linear designs that reflect the machine age aesthetic.

What is an old mine cut diamond?

An old mine cut is an early precursor to the modern round brilliant, featuring a cushion outline and hand-cut facets that catch ambient light uniquely. These stones appear frequently alongside rubies in pieces dating from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.