Avant Garde 7.63 Carat Ceylon Star Sapphire & Diamond Cluster Ring, circa 1965

A ring this is as wacky and it is wonderful. At the centre sits a large purplish blue natural Ceylon star sapphire – certified as having no heat treatment – that displays a clear asterism in sunlight. The stone is secured in an eight-claw collet that “floats” within an intricately idiosyncratic surround. Bordered on one side by six claw-set eight-cut diamonds, and on the other by seven grain set diamonds which is interrupted by a pair of baguette cut diamonds. High, asymmetrical shoulders with extravagant chenier work leads to a slim, D shaped shank.

Accompanied by a sapphire report from Gemmological Certification Services (GCS) stating the sapphire shows no indication of heating, and is Sri Lankan (Ceylon) in origin.

Cut – Oval cabochon sapphire with eight-cut and baguette cut diamonds.

Colour – The diamonds are H to I.

Clarity – The diamonds range from VS2 to SI2; all are clean to the naked eye.

Carat – The sapphire is a known 7.63 carat, with approximately 0.54 carat of diamonds.

Circa – 1965.

Size – R (UK) or 8 5/8 (US). Complimentary sizing is available, can go up or down.

Measurements – The sapphire is 11.37 x 8.42mm. The head of the ring is 18.8 x 17.4mm. Sits 9.6mm from the finger.

Metal – Palladium. Tested.