The geometric design of this signet ring
This 18-carat white gold signet ring draws on a design that originated in the Middle Ages, when the top of a ring was used as a seal to stamp documents with wax. Here, the bezel no longer bears a coat of arms but a composition of precious stones. A square pavé setting of 16 brilliant-cut diamonds, totalling approximately 0.10 carats, occupies the centre, framed by deep-blue calibrated sapphires. The calibrated cut, in which each stone is shaped to fit its setting exactly, developed in Art Deco jewellery of the 1920s. This pre-owned piece echoes those straight lines and the stark contrast between white and blue.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
The 10.5 mm square setting is constructed in tiers. At the centre, the raised pavé setting features four rows of four diamonds, each held by grains within a clearly defined setting, creating a regular chequerboard pattern. Around this, trapezoid-cut sapphires are set in a rail setting and radiate out from the pavé towards the polished band. Their blue varies from stone to stone, ranging from midnight blue to a brighter blue, and light dances along these stepped tiers with every movement of the hand. The ring shank, wide and flat, is mirror-polished across its entire surface and tapers beneath the finger. This substantial setting gives the centre stone a distinct presence, without any sharp edges.
Why choose this second-hand ring
A composition of sapphires and diamonds of this kind requires many hours of workshop labour today. Each calibrated sapphire must be cut and then fitted into its channel, whilst the central pavé setting requires precise setting, grain by grain. Choosing this second-hand signet ring gives you access to this level of craftsmanship and a generous gold setting for a fraction of the cost of a bespoke creation. The blue and white stones set against the white gold remain clearly visible when worn, on the hand of either a man or a woman.
Contents and condition
The ring is made of 18-carat white gold, 750 fineness, and is a size 54. It has been polished by our master jeweller, who has also checked the settings. It is delivered 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.