Zambian Emerald and Golconda Grace Vintage Ring, Circa 1980

A Zambian emerald ring, studded with golconda and baguette diamonds, all in 18K gold.  At the heart of this exquisite piece lies a large, oval Zambian emerald, its deep green hues echoing the lush landscapes of its African origin. Flanking this verdant treasure, baguette diamonds stretch horizontally, their linear cuts creating a striking contrast that accentuates the emerald’s grandeur. Crowning the composition atop and below, old Golconda European cut diamonds sit at the cardinal points, their historic brilliance and cutting style bringing a touch of antique elegance to the ring. 

Crafted over 40 years ago, this ring has journeyed through time, its beauty undiminished. Each stone is meticulously set in a band of 18K gold, whose warm tones complement the vibrant emerald and the sparkling diamonds. it is a wearable piece of history, perfect for those who appreciate the blend of classic and contemporary luxury.

Zambian Emeralds are coveted for their unparalleled quality and the unique mineral composition that gives rise to their striking green hue. The journey of these gems from obscurity to global acclaim began with their discovery in the 1920s, but it wasn’t until the latter half of the 20th century that their true value was recognized. Zambia’s Kagem mine is particularly noteworthy, having produced some of the most remarkable emeralds known to the world, such as the “Inkalamu” or “Lion Emerald.” Despite their robustness, with a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8, emeralds are inherently brittle, necessitating skilled craftsmanship to shape them without damage. The emerald cut, renowned for its beveled edges and rectangular form, is a testament to the gem’s storied past, designed to showcase its splendor while minimizing potential fractures. Revered throughout history, emeralds have adorned the crowns of royalty and have been immortalized in ancient lore, representing the epitome of power and timeless beauty.

Old Golconda diamonds, cut in the Old European style, are revered for their historical allure and exceptional purity. Sourced from the fabled Golconda mines of India, these gems are predominantly Type IIa, the purest form of diamond known for its colorless quality. With the mines exhausted by the early 18th century, Golconda diamonds represent less than 2% of diamonds today, making them extraordinarily rare and coveted. Their scarcity is a testament to their storied past and the modern rarity of such treasures. The Old European Cut, prevalent from 1890 to 1930, is characterized by its round shape, high crown, deep pavilion, and large facets, which impart a unique, soft brilliance. Hand-cut to perfection, each diamond’s slight asymmetry adds to its charm, distinguishing it from the precision-cut gems of today. These diamonds are not just rare; they are historical artifacts, sought after for their unique beauty and the legacy they carry.

Zambian Cabochon Emerald: 8.0 ct. (Approx.)
Diamond Baguettes: 1.0 ct. (Approx )
Old Golconda European Cut Diamonds: 2.0 ct. (Approx.)

Size: #52
Weight: 11.55 g.