Late Victorian White Gold and Large Amethyst Ring. This ring is Circa 1890 and it handmade in filigree with 14 karat white gold. There are two types of filigree: the stamped filigree that was mainly after the turn of the century and the handmade cut work filigree with small detail of open cut designs in the gold is pre-1900. The cut work was very hard to do and took great skill to keep the strength of the setting and yet give it a light dainty look too. The setting is a natural Amethyst that is emerald cut by hand and is 7.5 carats in size. The nice violet colored amethyst gemstone looks really nice in the white gold setting. This ring is from New York City, New York.

Amethyst has been popular as a gem since Pre-Roman times. The wine-loving Greeks even believed amethyst gems could prevent intoxication while medieval European soldiers wore amethyst amulets as protection in battle.

Amethyst meant “Peace of Mind” in the Victorian Language of Gems. The ring and amethyst are in excellent condition and a small size now but can be resized if needed, it is now a Size 7 1/4.