Antique 1940s engagement ring centered with a .88 carat old European cut diamond and flanked by approximately .30 carats of old European cut side diamonds in a 14K yellow gold and platinum setting. From the top, the ring has the simplicity of a classic three-stone design, but the side profile reveals one of its most distinctive details. The center diamond is raised above the finger in an openwork platinum gallery shaped almost like a crown, with tall arches surrounding and supporting the stone. This elevated construction gives the center diamond more presence while allowing the crown-like gallery to become part of the design itself. The combination of a platinum setting with a warm yellow gold shank also reflects the mixed-metal construction often found in vintage jewelry of the period. With its hand-cut Old European diamonds, raised profile, and architectural gallery, this ring is a great example of how much detail can be hidden beneath a seemingly simple three-stone setting.
