STYLE
ERA
French Perpignan garnet marquise ring, late 19th century
This French ring dates to the 1860s and is crafted in solid 18k gold, set with a Perpignan garnet.
The design is defined by a clean marquise-form centre stone. Its elongated outline and pronounced facet ridges create a restrained yet tension-filled silhouette. A three-prong split shank adds an architectural accent while softening the overall outline of the setting.
The garnet used in this ring originates from the Perpignan region in southern France. A closed-back construction and foil backing are characteristic features of local workmanship. Perpignan garnets are known for their distinctive palette—often rose red, pink-leaning, purplish, and sometimes tending toward orange-red. With foil backing, light is reflected more effectively, giving the stone a brighter, more vivid appearance. As the original mining sources in the region have long ceased operation, such garnets are now found only in antique jewellery, making them a valuable example of regional craft and material tradition.
The ring is in good antique condition, showing normal oxidation and wear consistent with age. The stone shows minor facet wear, and the hand-cut facets are naturally uneven. As condition assessment is subjective, please click and enlarge our photographs to examine detailed condition aspects as part of your evaluation.