An important antique ruby and diamond ring & A Belle Epoque ruby, diamond and pearl brooch

An important antique ruby and diamond ring. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2010

The circular-shaped ruby weighing 9.20 carats between pear-shaped diamond shoulders to the openwork gallery and plain hoop, circa 1910, in pink leather Garrard & Co. case. Estimate £400,000 - £600,000. Price Realized £2,169,250 ($3,373,184)Accompanied by report No. 57833 dated 12 November 2010 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating the ruby is of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating

Notes: The flat shape and irregular outline of this ruby suggests that it may have been adapted by Duchess Winifred from a 17th century ancestral jewel

Rubies have since times immemorial commanded the highest prices. Their universal appeal seems to lie in their unique red colour, which enjoys favourable connotations across many different cultures
The present ruby is an exceptional gem as it combines the highly sought-after 'pigeon's-blood red' natural colour with a high degree of transparency and an impressive carat weight.

A Belle Epoque ruby, diamond and pearl brooch. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2010

Of garland design, the old-cut diamond-set ribbon bow suspending a foliate drop with oval-shaped ruby centre to the diamond-collet and flowerhead detail, mounted within an old-cut diamond foliate swag with pearl drop suspension, mounted in silver and gold, pearl untested, circa 1900, 8.5cm long, in red leather fitted case. Estimate £10,000 - £12,000. Price Realized £43,250 ($67,254)

Christie's. Jewels - The London Sale, 1 December 2010, London, King Street www.christies.com