Diamond rings, particularly those designed for anniversaries, represent a significant portion of the estate jewellery market, as evidenced by numerous examples from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. While the provided sources do not focus on birthstones specifically, they offer a detailed look into the history, construction, and value of diamond rings, particularly those originating from Canadian jewellers like Ben Moss and Peoples, and crafted by companies like Libman & Co. This article will explore the characteristics of these rings, their construction, the materials used, and their place within the estate jewellery landscape.
History and Lore
The sources highlight a lineage of Canadian jewellery craftsmanship, with brands like Ben Moss Jewellers and Libman & Co. playing prominent roles. Ben Moss, though now defunct since 2016, left behind a legacy of well-made pieces that continue to appear on the estate market. Libman & Co., a Toronto-based manufacturer, was known for its quality products and proper pricing, operating for many decades before being acquired and eventually ceasing operations due to challenges from foreign labour and imports. These companies contributed to a tradition of diamond ring design and production within Canada.
The concept of anniversary rings itself carries a rich history, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. The rings described often feature multiple diamonds, representing the years of marriage or significant milestones within a relationship. The “Ever Us” line from Peoples Jewellers explicitly embodies this symbolism, with two diamonds representing the couple and smaller accent diamonds adding to the design.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not detail the geological formation of diamonds or their primary mining locations. However, they do mention that the diamonds used in these rings are “natural” and, in some cases, sourced from “trade-in or recycled estate jewellery.” This indicates a focus on sustainability and value within the estate market, utilizing existing diamonds rather than newly mined stones. The origin of the diamonds themselves is not specified beyond this.
Gemological Properties
The rings described showcase a variety of diamond characteristics. The majority of diamonds are described as round brilliant cut, a popular choice for maximizing brilliance and fire. Clarity grades range from SI (slightly included) to I2-I (included), with some stones appearing better in person than their grading suggests. Colour grades are typically I or H, indicating near-colourless to light yellow hues. Diamond weights vary, from single stones of 0.50 carats to rings featuring 22 diamonds with a total weight of 2.1 grams, or 42 diamonds totaling 0.50 carats.
The sources also mention “single cut” diamonds, which have fewer facets than brilliant cuts and are often found in older or more intricate designs. Sapphire accents are also present in some rings, described as square cut with a bright, true blue colour.
A table summarizing the gemological properties found in the sources is provided below:
| Gemstone | Cut | Clarity | Colour | Carat Weight (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond | Round Brilliant | SI - I2 | I - H | 0.012 - 2.1 grams (total) |
| Diamond | Single Cut | I1-I2 | I1-IJ | 0.09 carats (total) |
| Sapphire | Square Cut | Not Specified | Blue | 0.51 carats (total) |
Construction and Materials
The rings are primarily constructed from 14 karat white gold and 18 karat yellow gold, with some examples featuring a combination of both. The white gold is often finished with a rhodium plating to enhance its brightness and durability. The settings used vary, including 4-prong settings, channel settings, shared claw settings, bead settings, and filigree accents.
The construction quality is consistently highlighted, with Libman & Co. specifically praised for its well-made and robust designs. The use of heavy settings and shared claw settings indicates a focus on security and longevity. The sources also mention the practice of “upcycling” materials, using recycled gold and estate diamonds to create new rings, offering excellent value to customers.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While the sources do not explicitly detail metaphysical beliefs associated with diamonds, the symbolism of the rings themselves is prominent. Anniversary rings represent enduring love, commitment, and the passage of time. The use of multiple diamonds symbolizes the years shared together, while the continuous circle of an eternity band represents everlasting love. The “Ever Us” line from Peoples Jewellers directly emphasizes this symbolism, with the two diamonds representing the couple.
Diamonds themselves are traditionally associated with purity, strength, and invincibility, further enhancing the symbolic meaning of these rings.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions. However, based on the materials used (gold and diamonds), general recommendations can be inferred. Gold jewellery should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Diamonds can be cleaned with a soft brush and a solution of warm water and dish soap. It is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gold and the diamonds. Given the presence of sapphires in some rings, gentle cleaning is also recommended for these gemstones.
Unique Designs and Examples
The sources describe a diverse range of ring designs. One example features 22 round brilliant cut diamonds in a flat-edged anniversary band, creating the illusion of a full eternity ring. Another showcases a balanced pattern of brilliance with two lines of bead-set diamonds and a row of larger channel-set rounds. A more whimsical design features a looping ribbon motif accented with channel-set diamonds. A particularly striking ring features a vortex of swirling movement with diamonds and sapphires set in yellow and white gold.
An interesting example details a ring featuring natural Jadeite, enhanced through bleaching, dyeing, and polymer impregnation to achieve a beautiful apple-green hue. This demonstrates the variety of gemstones and treatments found within the estate jewellery market.
Market Value and Estate Jewellery
The sources provide specific pricing information for estate rings, demonstrating significant value compared to retail prices. For example, a ring originally priced at $1420.00 CAD by Peoples Jewellers is offered for $840.00 CAD in estate condition. Similarly, a ring with a total diamond weight of 0.75 carats is priced at $980.00 CAD, while another featuring 0.50 carats of VS clarity, H colour diamonds is available for an estate price reflecting excellent value.
The estate jewellery market offers a unique opportunity to acquire high-quality pieces at reduced prices. The practice of upcycling materials, as demonstrated by Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers, further enhances the value proposition for customers.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of diamond anniversary rings and the estate jewellery market. These rings represent a legacy of craftsmanship, symbolism, and enduring value. Brands like Ben Moss and Libman & Co. played a significant role in shaping the Canadian jewellery landscape, and their creations continue to be cherished by collectors and jewellery enthusiasts. The focus on recycled materials and quality construction highlights a commitment to sustainability and longevity, making these estate rings a timeless and meaningful choice. The detailed descriptions of the rings’ gemological properties, construction, and designs provide valuable insights for both jewellery buyers and students of gemology.