How do I care for a turquoise ring?

Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone that absorbs oils and chemicals easily. Remove the ring before washing hands, applying cosmetics, or undertaking heavy physical work. Clean the metal and stones gently with a soft, dry cloth rather than liquid jewellery dips or ultrasonic cleaners.

Can I wear a turquoise band daily?

Daily wear is possible with sensible precautions, given the softer nature of turquoise compared to diamond or sapphire. Selecting a secure setting style helps protect the stones from knocks. Rotating the ring with other pieces preserves the gold band and keeps the turquoise secure within its mount over time.

How do I date a gold ring?

Hallmarks stamped inside the band provide the most reliable guide to a ring's origin, indicating the assay office, metal purity, and year of testing. Maker's marks often accompany these official stamps. Stylistic clues such as buckle motifs, flower clusters, or geometric Art Deco lines also point towards specific decades like the Victorian or Edwardian eras.

What is a split shank?

A split shank divides the solid gold band into two separate strands as it approaches the central stone setting. This technique lightens the visual weight of the mounting. Victorian goldsmiths frequently employed this method on multi-stone and diamond cluster rings to enhance the overall symmetry.