Antique Ruby and Diamond Bangle in Rose Gold, c. 1890s

Towards the end of the 19th century, more high-quality jewellery was produced than ever before. Newly discovered gemstone deposits and the financially empowered bourgeoisie – as a result of industrialization and lively trade relations between the great powers of the West – led to a rapid upswing in the jewellery sector. Naturally, this also had an impact on the stylistic development of jewellery: In addition to figurative designs, there was now an increasing demand for designs that primarily served to show off the precious gemstones that were now available. One such piece of jewellery is the bangle shown here, which was created in the 1890s according to its manufacture and gemstone cuts. It consists of a narrow hoop of reddish gold with a magnificent arrangement of natural rubies and diamonds in the center. The large gemstones are arranged alternately and the gaps between them are filled with diamond roses so that no shape distracts from the play of colors and light. The settings are understated and their strength comes from their depth rather than their width, so that they are almost invisible when viewed from above when worn. The precious bangle was designed as evening jewellery. A fashionable lady of the upper classes would have worn it over a long white glove with an evening dress in a color that matched the gemstones. We would love to know what lavish parties this piece was once worn to!

Estimate:£7,211.66

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