Wièse's 4.86ct Diamond Ring, a Neo-Renaissance Legacy

This Late-Victorian Neo-Renaissance ring by Louis Wièse is a museum-quality marvel in Haute Joaillerie. Crafted in France from 18K yellow gold and platinum, the ring incorporates two putti, symbolic of love and innocence, adding layers of historical and emotional meaning. At its core lies a 4.86-carat old European cut diamond. Wièse's craftsmanship is renowned, even cited in multiple academic books on 19th-century jewellery. Authenticated by Wièse's signature and French hallmarks, this ring is a pinnacle of craftsmanship and a timeless heirloom, captivating collectors and destined for future generations to be amazed by its uniqueness.

Antique jewelry object group
ring

Condition
excellent condition
more info on our condition scale

Country of origin
France

Style
Victorian / Neo Renaissance
more info on styles

Style specifics
Neo-Renaissance jewellery refers to pieces inspired by the art and culture of the Renaissance period, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th centuries. Created primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Neo-Renaissance jewellery aimed to replicate the grandeur and intricacy of its historical predecessor. Artisans of this movement often utilised traditional materials like gold, enamels, and precious gemstones, meticulously crafting them into elaborate designs that featured a variety of motifs, such as mythological scenes, putti, and intricate floral patterns.

The Neo-Renaissance movement was largely a European phenomenon, with France being a key player in its development. Renowned jewellers like Jules Wièse elevated the craft to new heights, creating pieces that were not mere replicas but original works of art that incorporated Renaissance elements. These jewellery pieces were considered the epitome of luxury and sophistication, valued not just for their materials but also for their exquisite craftsmanship and detailed ornamentation. They are now highly sought after by collectors and can be seen as timeless heirlooms, capable of captivating future generations with their unique blend of history and artistry.

Period
ca. 1900
Events & facts of this era, poetry of this era, fashion of this era.

Source of inspiration
Renaissance

Theme
two putti, one male, one female
The use of two putti—one male, one female—could symbolise romantic or divine love, a union of opposites, or the harmony and balance achieved through such a union.

Material
18K yellow gold and platinum (touchstone tested)
more info on precious metals

Extra information
Louis Wièse was the son of famed 19th-century French jeweller Jules Wièse and continued his father's legacy of exceptional craftsmanship. Like his father, Louis excelled in creating intricate designs inspired by historical and religious themes. His work, often executed in gold and featuring detailed ornamentation, represents some of the finest examples of 19th-century French jewellery. Louis Wièse contributed to maintaining the family's esteemed reputation, with pieces today equally coveted by collectors and displayed in significant museums globally.

Diamonds
One old European cut diamond with an estimated weight of ± 4.86ct colour and clarity L, si1 (see pictures for HRD certificat)

Birthstones
Diamond is the birthstone (or month stone) for April.
more info on birthstones

Brand
Wièse

Signature
Wièse (see pictures)

Hallmarks
Wièse mastermark and the French control mark for 18K gold representing an eagle's head that was in use in France from about 1838. (see pictures for close ups)
more info on hallmarks

Dimensions
width top of ring 1,37 cm (0,54 inch)
see picture with a ruler in millimeters and inches

Weight
10,70 gram (6,88 dwt)

Ring size 52
more info on ring sizes

Adin Reference Nº
20027-0039

Copyright photography
Adin, fine antique jewellery

Sources
- Le Bijouterie Francaise au XIX Siècle par Henri Vever (volume 2 page 213 for similar ring)
- Henri Vever French Jewelry of the Nineteenth Century (page 1013)
- Jules Wièse und sien Atelier (similar rings in the book)
- Pariser Schmuck (page 49 for a ring in the same idea & page 44 for the Wièse mark)
- Dictionnaire des joailliers, bijoutiers et orfèvres en France de 1850 à nos jours By: L'École des Art Joailliers avec le soutien de Van Cleef & Arpels.

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