How do I care for antique sapphire rings?

Clean these pieces gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemical dips that might harm softer accompanying pearls or vulnerable metals. Store each item in an individual compartment to prevent harder diamonds from scratching the softer gold shanks or adjacent gemstones.

Were sapphires always blue in the Victorian era?

While deep blue remains the most common colour found in these listings, nineteenth century jewellers also utilised pink sapphires and white sapphires. Colours varied according to the geographical source of the corundum, with stones originating from Ceylon and Burma showing distinct tonal qualities.

How can I tell if a sapphire is unheated?

Gemmological reports provided with specific pieces confirm whether stones have undergone thermal enhancement to improve their natural clarity and colour. Unheated sapphires display natural internal growth lines and inclusion patterns that remain unaltered by modern laboratory treatments.

What metals were used alongside sapphires?

Goldsmiths predominantly employed eighteen carat and nine carat yellow gold for the structural bodies of rings, brooches and pendants. Silver was also utilised on the upper faces of settings to provide a bright white background that enhanced the sparkle of old cut diamonds.