The table cut was one of the first diamond cuts to evolve from the point cut (which is not really a cut at all since it just makes use of the diamond crystal's beautiful octahedral shape). Diamond cutters were relatively quick to realize that cutting the stones in specific ways gave them greater sparkle and brilliance. The table cut is simply one point removed from the upper pyramid point of the crystal, and a flat culet cut from the lower. This five stone ring features table cut diamonds in graduating sized in closed silver settings. c. 1780.
MATERIALS: 18k gold (marked), silver, 5 table cut diamonds (2.5 x 2.5mm, 3.4 x 3mm, 4.4 x 3.5mm, 3.5 x 3.2mm, 2.5 x 2.6mm)
AGE: c. 1780
CONDITION: Very good - a band of discoloration on the back of the shank, perhaps from a previous resizing or repair; French hallmark
SIZE: 8.75, can be slightly resized; 5.4mm head, 2.2mm shank