ESTIMATED RETAIL PRICE: $40,000+*

*This is the estimated value a piece of similar quality, craftsmanship, and characteristics could command at retail.

What makes this Victorian Ceylon sapphire compelling is not simply its size, though the spread is monumental for a ring stone. It is the atmosphere. The color shifts with movement: powder blue at one angle, storm-cloud cornflower at another. That elusive, velvety Ceylon blue that collectors spend years trying to define properly. Not the electric neon of modern heated material, nor the inky darkness that deadens a sapphire under evening light, something alive in between.

The buff-top cutting style is essential to this effect. Unlike faceted modern stones engineered for brilliance, this cut emphasizes body color, texture, and depth. The surface glows rather than flashes. It feels almost architectural, like looking through old cathedral glass. The surrounding rose-cut diamonds do not compete; they soften. Their slightly irregular antique cuts create a trembling halo of warm light that feels unmistakably nineteenth century.

What distinguishes this ring from comparable Victorian sapphire pieces at auction is scale combined with restraint. The mounting is surprisingly disciplined, the eye stays fixed on the sapphire. The elongated oval shape gives the ring elegance rather than heaviness, an important quality at this size.

Genuinely attractive unheated Ceylon stones with this kind of personality have become increasingly rare. Many surviving Victorian sapphire jewels appear overly dark, abraded, or recut to satisfy modern tastes. This example retains everything serious collectors value: the broad crown, the soft internal silk, the slightly imperfect but deeply human cutting style. Those are not flaws, they are the fingerprints of another era.

A ring like this does not simply expand a collection. It deepens it. The wearer does not merely put it on; they participate in the continuation of its story.

Summary of Key Characteristics
• Metal: 14K yellow gold
• Gemstone(s): Oval buff-top sapphire approx. 14 carats; rose cut diamonds approx. 0.30 carats total
• Ring Size: 5-1/2
• Measurements: 28 mm long
• Weight: 11.2 g.
• Condition: In very good condition. Sapphire has buff top with unusual and beautiful appearance; sapphire is very spread and setting is specially done. A couple of diamonds are chipped and it appears that one might have been replaced. Prong retipping is recommended. Sapphire with a few small nicks on the girdle.
• PROPERTY OF A MONTANA LADY

Global Shipping
With customers in over 100 countries, we provide fully insured global shipping, expertly arranged by our team. The shipping costs, determined based on the insured value of the package and its destination, will be calculated post-auction and added to your invoice. Please note, VAT, duties, or any additional charges related to international shipping are not included in these costs and remain the responsibility of the buyer.

Post-Auction Support
As a full-service auction house, we take pride in the comprehensive range of post-auction services we offer, including ring resizing, stone replacement, and repair work. It's part of our commitment to ensure a seamless transaction and to cater to your needs even after the gavel falls. However, please note that the applicability of certain services may vary depending on the specifics of the lot. If you have any questions or need additional information such as a cost estimate, we encourage you to reach out to us.

Property Sold As-Is
Please be aware that all lots are sold "As Is". We do not guarantee that the lot is in pristine condition or devoid of imperfections, or wear and tear that is consistent with the age of the item. It falls under the buyer's responsibility to inspect the lot or request additional photos and condition details prior to bidding.

Bidding Guidelines
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Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax
A tiered buyer's premium applies to all winning bids: 30% on the first $10,000, 25% on $10,001–$100,000, and 15% on any amount exceeding $100,000. The buyer's premium is not included in the online bid value. Buyer's premium is 33% if bidding on LiveAuctioneers. A minimum premium of $150 per lot applies. A Buyer Services Fee of $25 per lot is added to each purchase.
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Conditions of Sale
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Provenance
PROPERTY OF A MONTANA LADY