A finely modelled 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold snake bracelet. The head is set with turquoiseTurquoise is an opaque gem and is often formed in what is called matrix, a black or brown veining derived from the host rock in which the gem forms.  In fine jewellery, unblemished sky blue turquoise is the ideal, although regularly patterned matrix turquoise is also sought-after. More and two cabochonA polished, not faceted, dome shaped stone - either round or oval with a flat polished base, primarily used as a cut for phenomenal stones such as cat's eyes and stars. More rubies for his eyes. The body is articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More and the clasp fits neatly in to the snake head. Suspended from it's mouth is a small heart. Most VictorianJewellery made in the the Victorian era (1839-1901). More jewellery is full of hidden meanings. In the Victorian era it became very fashionable to wear snake jewellery after Prince Albert proposed to Queen Victoria with the very first engagement ring, which was in the image of a snake with an emerald-set head. In this case, the snake is a wonderful symbol of eternal love and the use of the turquoise means “Forget me not” after the flower of the same name. }

A very stylish 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold twist ring assayed When the property or concentration of a precious metal is measured. More in Birmingham in 1912. It is in the Art NouveauJewellery made in the Art Nouveau era (1890-1915). More style that was prevalent at the time. The citrineCitrine (from the French for ‘lemon’) is a rare, yellow type of quartz, a semi-precious stone that ranges in colour from pale yellow to orange to golden brown. The best quality citrine is found in Brazil. More is held by sinuous shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More like plant stems. The colour of the citrine imitates the colour of Imperial TopazIt comes in many colours, including brown, green. blue, yellow, red, pink and orange. Topaz is very hard, being 8 on the Mohs scale, with a high cleavage.  More, a lovely golden orange. It sits low on the finger so it is a practical ring to wear. }

The 1960s was all about the “Summer of Love”, "love" and "peace", so there is something rather special about this ring when you can see the "flower power" with the pearls and TurquoiseTurquoise is an opaque gem and is often formed in what is called matrix, a black or brown veining derived from the host rock in which the gem forms.  In fine jewellery, unblemished sky blue turquoise is the ideal, although regularly patterned matrix turquoise is also sought-after. More. This flower is symbolically set with a galleryA strip of metal that is pierced with a continuing pattern, often framing vertical lozenge-shaped openings within an upper and lower band. Such strips are used by jewellers to make a claw setting for a finger ring after slicing the strip horizontally so that it becomes a series of points which hold the stone. The complete gallery is called 'closet' and the h... More of hearts all the way round. It was bought in the late 1960s, from a shop called Bohemian Jewellery which was based in West Brompton, London. This ring is perfect if you love the 1960s vibes }

An unusual 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold bracelet that was made circa 1900-1910 and retailed by Murrle Bennett and Company in Regent's Street. London. Murrle, Bennett and Company was a wholesale jewellers established in London in 1884 by Ernst Mürrle and J B Bennett. They sold the jewellery fashions of the time and imported many pieces by Theodor Farhner from Pfortzeim in Germany. This is a particularly pretty bracelet and has been set with four peridots and four blister pearls within gold decorated wire work tendrils. It has a hidden clasp and a safety chainA small chain applied to a piece of jewellery with the purpose of adding additional security to prevent loss. On bracelets and necklaces a safety chain will often join the clasp ends should the clasp fail. On a brooch it is often attached to a small pin which is to be used in tandem with the main brooch pin. More}

A good example of a Suffragette bracelet set with Peridots (Green colour meaning “give”), Pearls ( White colour meaning “women”), Amethysts (Violet colour meaning “votes”). This bracelet would have been worn by sympathisers of the Suffrage movement as a sign to other women of their feelings. It is a very pretty design composed of amethysts interspersed with peridots with double figure of eight designs in between set with naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More split pearls. Mrs Pethick-Lawrence, editor of the weekly newspaper Votes for Women, explained the symbolism of the colours in spring 1908: “Purple as everyone knows is the royal colour. It stands for the royal blood that flows in the veins of every suffragette, the instinct of freedom and dignity; white stands for purity in private and public life; green is the colour of hope and the emblem of spring.” In other words, she said, the colours stood for freedom and dignity, purity and hope.}

A beautiful 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More Gold knot ring that was made in the early 1900s. It is composed of plain and decorated intertwined knots set with three rose diamonds within diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More shaped settings. This signified the union of two people. What a wonderful ring to give as an engagement or commitment ring, or just to wear as a beautiful look}

A good looking 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring with an architectural design that has been set with three very bright and clear well matched diamonds that have a total weight of three quarters of a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More. The flat shankThe circle of metal that attaches to the decorative part of a ring and encircles the finger. More sweeps up to meet the stones which are mounted in structured claws. There is a strong simplicity to this ring. It would make a great engagement ring as it sits low on the finger and can be stacked with other rings}

This is a very pretty heart shaped pendant that is typical of the style of jewellery that was made in the early 1900s. The fashions were pale coloured satins, lace and silks and so the jewellery reflected the lightness of the dresses and was delicate looking. This heart is a classic EdwardianJewellery made in the Edwardian era (1901-1914). More piece of jewellery and has been enamelled in turquoiseTurquoise is an opaque gem and is often formed in what is called matrix, a black or brown veining derived from the host rock in which the gem forms.  In fine jewellery, unblemished sky blue turquoise is the ideal, although regularly patterned matrix turquoise is also sought-after. More and white enamelA pigmented glass-like material used in powdered form and fused onto the metal surface of a piece of jewellery. More with a tiny rose diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More set heart in the centre with a small natural pearlA pearl-bearing mollusc that has not been tampered with by man to produce a cultivated pearl will produce a 'natural pearl'. More. It can be worn on a trace link chain}

A good looking 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold antiqueRefers to jewellery of at least 100 years of age. More bracelet that was made circa 1910. It is composed of close linked curb links with three wider links that each have an opalOpals occur in a range of body colours from white, black or grey, bright orangey red and a pale watery colour. The most precious opals show strong colour contrast and generally have a dark body colour with a vivid array of colour play. More set in the centre. The opals are well matched stones that display good flashes of colour, blue, green and some red. It has a neat hidden clasp with a safety chainA small chain applied to a piece of jewellery with the purpose of adding additional security to prevent loss. On bracelets and necklaces a safety chain will often join the clasp ends should the clasp fail. On a brooch it is often attached to a small pin which is to be used in tandem with the main brooch pin. More. This style of bracelet can be worn on a daily basis}

A beautiful silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More Arts and Crafts Necklace by Rasmus Bjorn Halvorsen. He was a Norwegian jewellery designer and made lovely pieces in the Arts and Crafts style in the early 1900s. His pieces are similar to designs by Evald Nielsen and Georg Jensen and the Skønvirke movement in Denmark which literally translates to “Beautiful Work.” This necklace is typical of the period when Arts & Crafts and Art NouveauJewellery made in the Art Nouveau era (1890-1915). More were popular in Europe. In harmony with the other European movements, it was a reaction to over industrialisation and strove for a return to quality craft work. It has been set with cabochonA polished, not faceted, dome shaped stone - either round or oval with a flat polished base, primarily used as a cut for phenomenal stones such as cat's eyes and stars. More cut chalcedonyA microcrystalline type of quartz occurring in several different forms including onyx and agate. More in each section of stylised plant motifs. It looks wonderful when worn as it really makes a statement}

A useful narrow 14ct58.5% pure gold (or 585 parts pure gold to 415 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More chain that is composed of box links. It can be worn with a pendant.}

An unusual 14ct58.5% pure gold (or 585 parts pure gold to 415 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made circa 1920 most likely in Belgium. It is in a stylised buckle design with a central curved panel of five well matched baguetteFrench for “rod.” A step-cut used for narrow, rectangular faceted stones, mainly those of a small size. More cut emeralds. Surrounding the emeralds on either side are well matched diamonds set in silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More. The shankThe circle of metal that attaches to the decorative part of a ring and encircles the finger. More is a wide open work design and is comfortable to wear. }

A delightful brooch that was made circa 1910-1920. It has a Royal blue enamel base. Mounted on the enamel is a silver basket of flowers which has been set with graded marcasite (iron pyrites) There is marcasite around the edge and marcasite flowers at either end. Marcasite to all intents and purposes looks and is cut like rose diamonds as it glitters when it catches the light. What a lovely gift instead of a bunch of flowers! }

A lovely pair of silver and amethyst earrings that were made circa 1940 by Bernard Instone. Instone was born in 1891 in Birmingham and died in 1987. In 1903 at the age of 12 he received a scholarship to attend the Central School of Art. He studied jewellery and practical silversmithing at the Birmingham School of Jewellery in Vittoria Street from 1904 until 1912 where he excelled. While at the school he studied under the famous Arts and Crafts jeweller Arthur Gaskin. After leaving Art School Instone began working at the studio of John Paul Cooper. He was then selected by Emil Lettre, the Berlin Court goldsmith to go to Berlin to further his training in the workshops at Unter-den-Linden. During his time there he produced a beautiful amethyst brooch for the King of Bavaria. In 1920 he set up his own business called Langstone Silverworks in Birmingham. He produced a large amount of jewellery with nature providing much of his jewellery design inspiration. His pieces were often characterised by leaves, flowers, different coloured enamels, and semi precious stones. While creating his own jewellery, he also designed for other jewellers including Sibyl Dunlop. In 1937, he became president of the Birmingham Jewellers' Association. Today the work of Bernard Instone is much sought after among collectors, due to the high quality workmanship, detail, and beauty of his jewellery. This pair of earrings is no exception }

A stunning 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold locket that was made circa 1860-1880. Inside are two compartments for photographs. The outside has been applied with an acorn and leaf motif. The oak branch is a symbol of strength and independence. This locket is quintessentially English and is in amazing condition. }

This is a beautiful 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold aquamarineAquamarine (from the Latin, “water from the sea”) is, as the name suggests, a pale green bluish to medium dark blue member of the beryl family. Due to its lovely, limpid color and its durability aquamarine has been one of the most popular gemstones from ancient times to the present day. 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale. The birthstone of March and 19th year ann... More and diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More ring that was made circa 1910-1920. It has been clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More set with a rectangular cut aquamarine with two little diamonds with a further larger one on either side. It is a lovely well balanced design with attention to detail with gold claws for the aquamarine and white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More rub over mounts for the diamonds. It sits low on the finger so it is a practical ring to wear and would make a fantastic engagement or dress ring}

A lovely 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made in the 1930s and has been set with three old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamonds. The centre stone is approximately thirty five pointsA unit of weight for a diamond, being one-hundredth of a metric carat. It is used for weights that are decimal fractions of a carat, and all figures after the second decimal point are, in the diamond and jewellery trade, generally discarded. More and the diamonds on either side are twenty points each with a total weight of three quarters of a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More. They are well matched bright white stones. It would make a beautiful engagement ring as it sits low on the finger so it is practical to wear.}

This is a lovely 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring with a platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More top that has been clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More set with a really bright and clear 0.60 caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More. On either side set in to shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More are small diamonds that set off the big diamond beautifully. It is in excellent condition and would make a perfect engagement ring}

A smart and narrow eternity bandA type of ring which is an equal width all the way round. They are traditionally used for wedding rings. More that has been set with just under a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More of close set small brilliant cutA circular gemstone cut, especially for diamonds or other transparent stones, with 57 or 58 facets. This cut returns the greatest amount of brilliancy, fire, and white light to the eye, making it an immensely popular cut. Also known as the Modern Brilliant Cut, the American Brilliant Cut, or the Ideal Cut. More diamonds. These bands are great to wear on their own or stacked with other different coloured gemstone eternity bands. This ring may be able to be sized down on a case to case basis}

A finely made silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More brooch of a rose surrounded by an entwined pattern of leaves. It has been set with graded white pasteGlass made to resemble gem materials, which may be moulded, faceted, carved, etc.  More with a larger one in the centre of the rose. The pierced work is attractive and contrasts well when worn with different colours underneath. This brooch was made circa 1900-1910 and would most likely have been a gift of admiration and love}

It always surprises me that some pieces I find are so modern looking. This is one such example although it was made circa 1880. It is a large brooch and a good strong design that one could almost attribute to the Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More period in the 1920s. It has been set with Vauxhall glassThrough the eighteenth century and on into the middle of the nineteenth, Vauxhall glass was a popular gem substitute. Intense hues of highly reflective purple, orange, red, green and blue were set into butterfly, snowflake and flower motifs on necklaces, bracelets, earrings, brooches and hair combs. Made in the Vauxhall Glassworks in London, this jewellery w... More cut in different geometric shapes. The design is a curved top with three large square facetedA faceted stone has small, flat-cut surfaces that make a sparkling effect on transparent stones. Facets act as both mirrors and windows. Reflecting light and channelling light into a stone where it refracts and re-emerges. More Vauxhall glass pieces. Below is a row of round glass with articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More pear shaped and round drops. The overall effect is dramatic and very wearable}

These are such pretty earrings in a daisy cluster design and set with naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More split pearls.They are 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold and were made circa 1880. The original wires are secure as they clip in to hinged hook fittings. They can be worn on a daily basis}

A pretty 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold bangle that was made 1890 in Chester. It has been set with four opals in diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More shaped settings with three rose diamonds in star settings in between. On either side is a ridged design that continues around the bangle. There is a safety chainA small chain applied to a piece of jewellery with the purpose of adding additional security to prevent loss. On bracelets and necklaces a safety chain will often join the clasp ends should the clasp fail. On a brooch it is often attached to a small pin which is to be used in tandem with the main brooch pin. More for added security}

A good pair of very wearable silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More earrings that have clip on fittings that were made circa 1930. They have been paveA style of setting in which the stones are set as close together as possible to cover the entire field of the setting for a cobblestone (or “paved”) effect where the setting does not show. More set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More (iron pyrites) that glitter like rose diamonds when worn}

A pretty pair of silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More earrings that were made in Birmingham in 1958. They have been set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More (iron pyrites) in a pierced design that glitter like rose diamonds when worn. They have clip on fittings but can be changed if wanted }

An attractive Art Deco ladies watch. The case is 18ct gold with an enamel design on either side and bordered with leaves. The sides are also decorated. The strap is a gold plated mesh strap marked Tessuflex. The movement is by the Swiss firm "Mira". It was established in 1896. It's name was derived from a binary star, 350 light years away from Earth. The star was discovered by astronomer David Fabricius in 1596 and later named by Johannes Hevelius in 1662 as “MIRA”, meaning “wonderful” and “astonishing” in Latin. }

A pretty pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More earrings that were made in the 1960-1970 period. They each have a bright white twenty pointA unit of weight for a diamond, being one-hundredth of a metric carat. It is used for weights that are decimal fractions of a carat, and all figures after the second decimal point are, in the diamond and jewellery trade, generally discarded. More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More in the centre. They are surrounded by six well matched emeralds. They sit neatly on the ear and can be worn on a daily basis.}

A useful pair of 14ct58.5% pure gold (or 585 parts pure gold to 415 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More earrings that were made in the 1950s. The design is quite unusual as the diamonds are graded in a half moon design with a cultured pearlA man-made pearl. The pearls are produced by inserting an irritant into a mollusk. More above. They have secure posts that the butterfly screws on to. They look very effective when worn.}

A pretty pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More earrings with comfortable hinge back fittings. The large diamonds are half a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More each, and have a small diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More above each one. The white gold work has a pierced leaf pattern that gives the earrings a lighter look. The length is ideal for both day and night wear.}

A smart pair of Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More drop diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More earrings. They are platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More with gold hinge back ear wires. The articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More pierced work design is very effective and they move beautifully when worn. They were made circa 1920-1930.}

A beautiful pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More drop earrings that were made circa 1910-1920. They are set with a half caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More in the centre surrounded by twelve well matched white diamonds with three diamonds above. The photographs do not do the diamonds justice as they are much whiter! They have secure hinged back fittings. The effect is marvellous when worn.}

A great looking 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More ring that was made in the 1920s. It has been set with a fancy cut fire opalOpals occur in a range of body colours from white, black or grey, bright orangey red and a pale watery colour. The most precious opals show strong colour contrast and generally have a dark body colour with a vivid array of colour play. More. Mexican fire opals are named for their uniform flaming orange or cherry red body colour. They are always very brightly coloured, and can be a little bit cloudy to almost perfectly transparent. This example is a stunning orange colour and transparent and has been cut and presented in the geometric style that typifies what the Art Deco period was all about, plain stylish and striking pieces }

A very pretty 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made in Birmingham in 1904. It has been clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More set with three well matched opals with small old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamonds in between in a pie crust design. The opals display a good play of colour especially the centre stone. It would make a wonderful dress ring}

A good quality pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold earrings set with two well matched cultured pearls and white diamonds. Very smart and a classic look.}

A good looking 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring with a platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More top that was made in the 1920s. It has a central square emerald cutA square or rectangular cut stone with a square table and step cut sides. More emeraldOne of the four ‘precious’ stones. An intense, deep green is the most desirable colour for emeralds. Flaws and cloudiness (‘jardin’) are very common in emeralds, so stones are often oiled, irradiated, and dyed to improve their look. Synthetic emeralds have fewer imperfections and are hard to set apart from natural stones. Emeralds belong to the beryl... More. it is a good clear mid green naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More Columbian stone. On either side is a transition cutDirect descendants of the Old European Cut, this progressive cuts saw an evolution toward a larger table, a lower crown, and a smaller culet than previous cuts. However, unlike later brilliants, the girdles of these stones remained unfaceted. Considered a precursor to both the Modern Round Brilliant and the Ideal cuts. More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More that weighs a quarter of a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl.}

A lovely 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring with a platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More top that was made in the 1920s. It has been set with a square cut emeraldOne of the four ‘precious’ stones. An intense, deep green is the most desirable colour for emeralds. Flaws and cloudiness (‘jardin’) are very common in emeralds, so stones are often oiled, irradiated, and dyed to improve their look. Synthetic emeralds have fewer imperfections and are hard to set apart from natural stones. Emeralds belong to the beryl... More with a transitional cutDirect descendants of the Old European Cut, this progressive cuts saw an evolution toward a larger table, a lower crown, and a smaller culet than previous cuts. However, unlike later brilliants, the girdles of these stones remained unfaceted. Considered a precursor to both the Modern Round Brilliant and the Ideal cuts. More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More on either side. The emerald is a wonderful mid green colour and is most likely a Columbian stone. It is a large size but can easily be sized down to a neat fit. It would make a perfect engagement ring}

A beautiful bow brooch that was made in the 1920s and is typical of the Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More period. It is so realistic and flows like the ribbon it is imitating. It has been set with graded old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More and rose diamonds and cut and shaped onyxOnyx is an opaque black variety of polycrystalline chalcedony quartz.  More in platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More settings with millgrainA technique developed in the late 19th century as a textural effect to metal work on the edges or bezels of jewellery. That technique is referred to as millegrain (or mille grain or even milegrain). From the French word mille for a thousand, and from grain as the same meaning in English, it refers to what appears to be thousands of tiny beads upon a metal pr... More detail. The reverse is 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold. It is such a pretty brooch to wear on a dress or a jacket lapel}

A smart pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold earrings that were made in the 1930s. Each earring has been set with a facetedA faceted stone has small, flat-cut surfaces that make a sparkling effect on transparent stones. Facets act as both mirrors and windows. Reflecting light and channelling light into a stone where it refracts and re-emerges. More piece of nephrite. The name Nephrite comes from the Greek word ‘nephros’, which means ‘kidney’. It’s because of the rounded and kidney-shaped Nephrite pebbles and boulders that convinced people to think that this stone can cure kidney ailments and diseases. Either way they are beautiful deep green stones with little dark flecks within. They measure 1.8 cms across so they look impressive when worn}

A pretty 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made circa 1900. In the centre is a pearlNatural pearls are an organic gem formed inside live mollusc shells and come in all shapes and sizes. They are formed as the result of a natural irritant within the mollusc's mantle and as a defence, layers of iridescent nacre form over the top of it, creating a pearl.  More surrounded by eight old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamonds within curved and clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More settings. It sits low on the finger so it is a practical ring to wear although care should be taken of the pearl}

This is a charming ring that you can imagine a character in a Jane Austen novel wearing. It is 15ct gold and was made circa 1820-1830. It is typical of the Regency period with it's light and pretty design. In the centre is a a carved chalcedony of a forget me not with a natural split pearl on either side. The meaning of the forget me not is clear that you must not “Forget the giver" The shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More continue the floral leaf motif to a plain shankThe circle of metal that attaches to the decorative part of a ring and encircles the finger. More. On the reverse is a curved glazed locket that would have originally held a lock of hair. It is a wonderful and original ring}

A very pretty 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made circa 1820. It has been set with two rows of sixteen naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More split pearls and has bifurcated shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More that give the ring a light look. It sits low on the finger so t is a practical ring to wear, but we must remember that this ring would have ben worn indoors as a dress ring therefore we would not recommend gardening or other outdoor pursuits as the pearls could dislodge}

An unusual brooch that was made circa 1880. It has been set with graded Bohemian garnets which as the title suggests were mined in Bohemia which was part of the Austro Hungarian Empire at that time. They have a wonderful Burgundy red colour and were always rose cutThe ‘rose cut’, defined by its rounded outline and multiple triangular facets, is one of the earliest diamond cuts, with its origins in sixteenth century Europe. A rose cut typically has a flat base and anywhere from six to twenty four facets, the latter known as a full rose cut. More to show this off. This brooch is a lovely design with a sweet bow at the bottom so I am sure that it would have been given to a lady by an admirer}

An unusual silver pendant that was made in the 1920s. In the centre is a carved piece of coral in the form of flowers. Around it are natural split pearls. It is on a silver trace link chain }

A fantastic GeorgianJewellery made in the Georgian era (1714-1830). More ring that was made circa 1800-1820. It has been set with old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamonds. Beneath the centre diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More cluster is blue glass. Georgian rings like this were known as “bagues au firmament”, or “rings of the heavens”. The deep blue glass was intended to evoke the night sky, and the diamonds the stars, in this case you have a singular big star surrounded by a cluster of diamonds. These rings are getting increasingly rare.}

A 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More chain with interesting alternate long and then three oval links that can be worn on a daily basis}

A charming pair of diamond daisy cluster earrings that were made circa 1900-1910.  They are old European cut diamonds with a total weight of  nearly one and a quarter carats.  They have larger diamonds in the middle with smaller diamonds around them, hence the term "Daisy cluster".  They are a good medium size so they sit well on the ear and can be worn on a daily basis }

A lovely platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More and natural pearlA pearl-bearing mollusc that has not been tampered with by man to produce a cultivated pearl will produce a 'natural pearl'. More chain that was made in the early 1900s when this type of chain was very popular.  It has eighty three well matched naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More pearls closely strung with platinum links in between. It can be worn on a daily basis with either casual or smart clothes}

A charming and finely painted miniature of a young lady who is believed to be Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire. She is wearing a black hat with ostrich feathers. Her hair is in ringlets in keeping with the fashions of the time. She is wearing a black and white pearlNatural pearls are an organic gem formed inside live mollusc shells and come in all shapes and sizes. They are formed as the result of a natural irritant within the mollusc's mantle and as a defence, layers of iridescent nacre form over the top of it, creating a pearl.  More necklace and a black dress with a pretty lace collar over a white fichou. On the reverse there is a lock of near auberne hair with gold wire detail. The large frame is 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold, set with graded naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More pearls. It has a baleA component of certain types of jewellery, mostly necklaces, that is used to attach a pendant or stone.  The bail is normally placed in the centre of the necklace where the pendant hangs. More that has also been set with three natural pearls. The miniature was painted circa 1820. In our opinion the frame is later, circa 1860.}

A stylish pair of lorngettes that spring open to reveal glasses that magnify. Lorgnettes were a real fashion statement in the 1920s and would have been worn on a long silver chain. The handle is a very pretty design of a flower basket and an elegant bow with sapphires and rubies and an emerald for the flowers and a cabochon blue sapphire detail for the bow. The graded marcasite (iron pyrites) glitters like rose diamonds in certain light. It is presented in it's original red Moroccan leather box with black velvet and silk inside. }

A truly great pair of Regency drop earrings which were made circa 1800-1820. They are silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More fronted with gold wash on the reverse which is entirely in keeping with the period. The pasteGlass made to resemble gem materials, which may be moulded, faceted, carved, etc.  More is in good condition as sometimes with foiled paste it can become discoloured. There is a black spot at the base of the foiling of each white paste that was intended to imitate the culet of an old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More. You can always date items of jewellery when you see this }

A pretty pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More earrings that have been set with shaped aquamarines with small diamonds in between. They take the form of butterflies and look beautiful when worn}

A wonderful and very long 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold guard chainA long chain from which a key, watch or other object of use is hung. More that can be worn twice or three times around the neck. The links are interlocked safety pin style interspersed with round links. It was made circa 1890-1900. }

A good looking pair of 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold snake earrings with rubyOne of the most valuable gemstones on earth. From the corundum family, the red variety being ruby and the blue, sapphire. With the exception of the diamond, corundum is the hardest of the gemstones on the Mohs scale scoring a 9. More eyes that were made by Cropp & Farr in Birmingham in 1968. Cropp & Farr were a well known company who operated from Hatton Garden. In the 1947 Olympia fair British Industries Fair they were listed as “Manufacturers of Fine Quality Inexpensive Gem-Set Jewellery, Specialising in Coloured Stones and Diamonds. Aquamarines, TopazIt comes in many colours, including brown, green. blue, yellow, red, pink and orange. Topaz is very hard, being 8 on the Mohs scale, with a high cleavage.  More, Zircons, etc also Gold Jewellery, Signets, Sporting Brooches, Charms, Cuff-Links and Gents’ Dress Sets”. Their pieces are always well made and wearable as with these earrings }

An impressive mid 19th-century ring made from 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold. The central emeraldOne of the four ‘precious’ stones. An intense, deep green is the most desirable colour for emeralds. Flaws and cloudiness (‘jardin’) are very common in emeralds, so stones are often oiled, irradiated, and dyed to improve their look. Synthetic emeralds have fewer imperfections and are hard to set apart from natural stones. Emeralds belong to the beryl... More is step cutA step cut is a style of cutting a gemstone characterised by straight sides with parallel facets. Most often, step cut stones are square or rectangular. More and set in a closed back mount, allowing light to illuminate a lovely vivid green colour. This emerald is surrounded by fourteen sparkling white old European cutGemstones cut in this style have a smaller table than the round brilliant and the overall depth is greater. This style of cutting was popular in the 19th Century and is the direct predecessor to the modern round Brilliant Cut. Similar to the Old Mine Cut. More diamonds in scalloped settings. The shankThe circle of metal that attaches to the decorative part of a ring and encircles the finger. More sweeps up to join the cluster with fluted shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More in such an elegant way. It would make a beautiful engagement ring or a fabulous dress ring.}

This is such a pretty platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More ring that was made circa 1915. The diamonds are good clear white stones with a larger clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More set diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More that is set slightly higher in the centre. It weighs half a caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More. It is surrounded by nine smaller diamonds within scalloped settings making the total weight just under one carat. It sits low on the finger so it would make a beautiful engagement ring}

A beautiful 15ct gold pendant that was made circa 1900-1910. It is a lovely design with attention to a curvilinear pattern which is typical of the Art Nouveau period. It has been set with a faceted citrine in the centre and a pear shaped citrine drop. Then there are three flowers each set with natural split pearls and further leaves and tendrils to complete the overall effect. It can also be worn as a brooch if wished. The colour scheme is soft and would have looked wonderful with the fashions of the Edwardian period. Having said that it is still wearable with todays fashions! }

This style of ring is always popular. It is known as a gypsy ring as the old mine cut diamond has been set within a star setting. The design has traditionally been considered very lucky and would originally have been given as a token of love That literally means "You are the star in my life". The diamond means "For Eternity" What a perfect ring to give to someone that you love }

A very pretty 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring that was made circa 1900-1910. It is s little different from the normal crossover ring in that it has sweet little swirls on either side of the diamonds harking back to the Art NouveauJewellery made in the Art Nouveau era (1890-1915). More influence that was still prevalent. The two diamonds are well matched white stones and are securely set in rub over settings. It would make a perfect engagement ring}

This is a lovely 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold ring with a platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More top. The two diamonds are well matched white stones. What makes this ring stand out are the shouldersThe point on a ring where the central section meets the shank or band, often carved, decorated or inlaid with small diamond accent stones. More set with small rose cutThe ‘rose cut’, defined by its rounded outline and multiple triangular facets, is one of the earliest diamond cuts, with its origins in sixteenth century Europe. A rose cut typically has a flat base and anywhere from six to twenty four facets, the latter known as a full rose cut. More diamonds in a stylised leaf setting. It was made circa 1900-1910 and would be ideal as an engagement ring.}

A fine quality silver and marcasite brooch that was made in the 1920s. It is the form of a basket of flowers within a rectangular frame. It has a pale blue guilloché enamel background. Guilloché is a decorative technique in which a very precise, intricate and repetitive pattern is mechanically engraved into the underlying silver via engine turning then the translucent enamel is applied. The graded marcasite (iron pyrites) glitters like rose diamonds in certain lights so it is a pretty brooch to wear for all occasions and a lovely gift to give to someone you love }