Art Nouveau Blue & White Moonstone Ring

№. 377

STORY: 

The moonstone has been captivating wearers the world over for centuries. The Romans were mesmerised by the stone and believed it was formed from frozen moonlight. India considers the stone sacred offering the wearer gifts of fortune-telling and clairvoyance. 

The stone experienced a massive revival in the early 1900s when Rene Lalique started showcasing the stone in his trailblazing Art Nouveau designs.  The ethereal and celestial qualities of the stone made it the perfect match for the Art Nouveau aesthetic. 

The Moonstone is worn as a symbol of love, healing and protection - making it the perfect talisman during pregnancy and motherhood. It has also been referred to as the "Traveller's Stone" offering protection to those travelling at night by the shine of the moon.  

This stunning example of Art Nouveau design features three luminous moonstones. It's appeal lies in the elegant use of contrasting coloured stones. A milky white centre stone is set between two luminous blue stones to it's sides.  The stones are set into silver with marcasite accents dotted around to add that extra bit of sparkle! 

It is a beautiful ring and true treasure to have survived the last 100 years. 

CONDITION: 

The ring is in good antique condition. Given the stones are so delicate and soft, not many from this period have survived. If you look closely at the photos you will see a yellowing of the original glue around the setting of the stones. This is not dirt and is only noticeable when looking for it. There is minor scuffing to the surface of the stones which is evidenced in the photos but again this is expected given their age and tendency to scratch easily. 

Moonstones are delicate and must be handled with care. It is recommended the ring be cleaned using warm water with a mild soap and carefully, if necessary use a soft bristled brush to clean any stubborn areas. Because of the marcasites, the ring should not be submersed into water or jewellery cleaning solutions as this could cause the stones to fall out or become brittle/break.  

ERA:

Early 1900s-1915

MEASUREMENTS:

The ring is a size  52.5 EU. 

The central white moonstone measures 7mm diameter

The 2 blue moonstones measure 5mm in diameter. 

The ring sits approx 6mm above your finger and care should be taken to make sure it doesn't snag on anything. 

HALLMARKS:

The ring is hallmarked 835 which is a German purity mark of the period. 

MATERIALS:

Silver, moonstones and marcasites

PROVENANCE:

Germany