April 8 Newsletter

The ring is surely among the earliest forms of self-adornment devised by the human race. Other than a crown, there is probably no other "hardware" worn by man or woman that can generate mystery and exude power like a ring. Almost every culture has its tales of rings that bring wealth, immortality or the fulfillment of three wishes.

Throughout much of the Middle Ages both sexes wore multiple rings on their fingers and even on their thumbs. The Greeks and Romans were remarkably fond of rings, which were engraved with exquisite taste, enhanced with precious stones and worn in profusion. By the 16th century the fingers became so laden with rings that it became customary to sew one's growing collection onto a sleeve, a hat or to wear them suspended from a gold chain or silk cord round the neck.

DECO CABOCHON SAPPHIRE RING

Art Deco platinum, diamond and sapphire ring having at center a cabochon blue sapphire weighing approximately 5.0cts set in a filigreed mounting decorated with round diamonds.

$8,700

Blessing the wedding ring and placing it on the bride's finger supposedly dates back to the 11th century. Roman mythology held that the vena amoris or "vein of love" ran directly from the heart to the fourth or ring finger. The western tradition of wearing one's engagement ring on the fourth or ring finger of the left hand is rooted in this mythology and more recently is being embraced by eastern cultures. We can all thank the global advertising campaigns produced by DeBeers for "spreading the news". Meanwhile in the Indian culture, the left hand is viewed as "dirty" or "suspicious" so DeBeers may find a bit more resistance there.

CAT'S EYE & DIAMOND RING

Platinum, diamond and Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye ring having at center an oval cabochon chrysoberyl cat’s eye weighing 5.70ct flanked on each side by 12 round diamonds (24 total) weighing a total weight of .61cts.

$5,900

The Bishop's 18KT gold ring first appeared in the third century as a symbol of Episcopal authority and later became the distinctive symbol that represented the marriage of the Bishop and the Church. Episcopalians will remember the weight of the Bishop's hands on their head at confirmation because that weight included an enormous gold and amethyst ring. It is highly unlikely that the Pope will place his hands on any one of us but the yellow gold Fisherman's Ring that each Pope wears on his right ring finger is made especially for him and is smashed upon his death.

DIAMOND CROSSOVER RING

18KT yellow gold and diamond cross-over ring pavè set with 208 round diamonds weighing approximately 4.00cts.

$5,200

It is curious how the fourth finger has remained the most popular digit to decorate, as it is the weakest of all the fingers. If you doubt this, make a fist and then one-at-a-time pop each finger out of the fist to full extension.