The ‘marble’ principle according to Gilbert Albert
This 18-carat yellow gold ring by Gilbert Albert incorporates the ‘interchangeable marble’ principle, with which the name of the Geneva-based jeweller remains closely associated. Trained at the Geneva School of Industrial Arts, Gilbert Albert ran the Patek Philippe workshop from 1955 to 1962, opened his own workshop that same year and was awarded the Diamonds International Award ten times. The Geneva Museum of Art and History holds one of his ball rings, dated around 1990. This second-hand piece is based on the same concept: an open gold cage that holds a 15 mm ball, which can be changed to suit an outfit or the season. Without the bead, the interlaced gold design can be worn as it is, like a wide, sculpted bangle.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
The body of the ring is entirely openwork. Undulating gold wires intertwine along the entire length of the band and form, at the top, the cage designed to hold the bead, with a small gold ring visible at the very top. The piece features two distinct finishes. The ridges are mirror-polished, whilst the recesses and sides retain a rough, grainy texture. When worn, this contrast causes the light to dance across the raised areas whilst leaving the recesses in shadow. The setting is substantial, but the openwork in the gold lightens the design. Towards the palm, the band tapers into a scalloped edge, which is more discreet between the fingers. The piece is set with no stones.
Why this second-hand ring
A Gilbert Albert ring of this size, with two finishes on each undulation, now commands a high workshop cost. Purchased second-hand, it offers access to a signed designer piece with a distinctive design, at a price that is incomparable to a bespoke commission in 18-carat gold. The bead system also allows for versatile use, with a single setting suitable for beads made of hard stone, mother-of-pearl or coral.
Contents and condition
The ring is signed by Gilbert Albert and bears the 750 hallmark on the inside of the band. It is size 48 and cannot be resized. Our artisan jeweller has polished and inspected it, preserving the contrast between the mirror-polished surfaces and the textured areas. It is supplied without a bead, in a The Swiss Collector box.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this ring, which is covered by a 12-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Refurbished – The piece has been polished and inspected by our master jeweller, who has restored it to its original lustre.
