A scarce find, this Portuguese cluster was crafted in silver in the late 1700s and features a beautifully cut large central chrysoberyl surrounded by a mix of chrysoberyl and minas novas in close-set, foiled collet settings.
Chrysoberyl, a rare gem that can be greenish to yellow in color, was discovered in Brazil in the late 1700s. It became popular in Portuguese jewelry after large quantities became available. In the 18th and 19th centuries, chrysoberyl was used in rings, brooches, and earrings. Earrings often featured articulated pendants suspended from ribbons while rings often featured a gold bead surround.
In the middle of the 18th century in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil, diamond mines and a huge variety of other precious and semi-precious stones were discovered, in addition to gold. Among the former, a variety of totally colorless quartz - hyaline quartz - better known as rock crystal, became especially popular with Portuguese customers.
The ring has been crafted in silver and 18k gold (tested) and measures approximately 20mm tall by 16.4mm at its widest. This ring is about a size 7 and weighs 5.3g. It can be sized but, should be sized by a jeweller with experience with antiques due to age and foiling. Once part of a larger piece, it was converted into a ring, likely in the 1800s. Wear commensurate with age and use, with some old lead solder visible on the reverse. You will receive the pictured ring.
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