Post medieval sapphire fleur-de-lis ring. An impressive and extremely rare ring, set with two kite shape rose cut natural unenhanced sapphires in closed back rubover settings with a combined approximate weight of 0.50 carats, further set with two cushion shape rose cut natural unenhanced sapphires in closed back rubover settings with a combined weight of 0.20 carats, further adorned with one oval rose cut natural unenhanced sapphire in a closed back rubover setting with a weight of 0.10 carats. The total approximate sapphire weight is 0.80 carats, to a fleur-de-lis shaped cluster with extremely fine engraved detailing to the side and underside of the bezel as well as to the shoulders, highlighted with traces of white enamel and flowing through to a slim solid D-shape shank. Tested yellow gold, circa 16th century, accompanied by an Oxford Labs X-ray fluorescence report stating the composition of the metal.
It is thought that this ring may have originally been owned by a member of the French monarchy since it combines both the heraldic fleur-de-lis motif and the blue colour of the sapphires- both strongly associated with French monarchy since the medieval period onwards.
This is an exceptional museum quality 16th century ring and is in excellent condition.
