The Antique Early 20th Century Turquoise and Split Pearl Fly Ring

This antique ring features a wide band with a central fly-shaped insect containing a teardrop turquoise cabochon cut gemstone accompanied by five spilt seed pearls. The shoulders include fancy grooved detailing framing the fly wonderfully, leading into a plain band. The fly motif has been set over the vacant ring mount, previously made for an oval-shaped gem.

The fly is a symbol of persistence and perseverance and has been a popular motif in jewellery throughout history. The Victorians associated the fly with human mortality and used it as a talisman to protect against evil, often adorning fly brooches with precious gemstones to create complex hidden meanings.

This ring, circa 1900, is partly hallmarked for 9ct gold. It has some slight discolouration to the turquoise gemstone and some nacre wear to the split pearls. One of the pearls is a simulated pearl replacement. Also, the insect is missing a second pair of wings and one front leg. However, all stones remain well held and usual marks commensurate with age.

Please find the SafeGuard report, (see the end image in the gallery) for more detailed information.

Size F½ UK