Indian
Ring,
Sapphire in gold setting, 2.5 cm (1 in.)
This ring from India has a large, dark blue octagonal sapphire at the center of a intricate gold setting. The setting has a fluted base that flares outward. Above that, a scalloped row and a line of balls surround the sapphire that is held in place with eight prongs in a bezel setting. A bezel setting is a type of setting in which a vertical rim of metal snuggly surrounds a gemstone to securely hold it in place. Small, scroll-like decorations are found along either shoulder. At the shank, the mid-point between the top and bottom of the band, on both sides there are some geometric details. The ring is in excellent condition.
Little Salon
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.