Antique Viennese Pink Sapphire Ring

A striking antique gold ring made in Vienna during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, dating to circa 1900.

The ring is set with an elongated old cut pink sapphire weighing approximately 0.40ct, flanked by two old European cut diamonds with a combined weight of approximately 0.50cts. The stones are flush set into a broad, softly contoured gold band, a characteristic design of turn-of-the-century Viennese jewellery.

The sapphire is most likely a flame fusion sapphire. In the late 19th century, Auguste Verneuil perfected the flame fusion process, producing synthetic sapphires and rubies that were chemically identical to their natural counterparts. First exhibited at the 1900 Paris Exposition, these stones were celebrated for their exceptional clarity and saturated colour, and were widely embraced by European jewellers as a modern luxury. At the height of their novelty, such stones could command prices comparable to, or exceeding, their naturally mined counterparts.

Crafted in 14K gold, the ring weighs 6.7 grams. It bears the Austro-Hungarian fox head hallmark, used between 1872 and 1922, confirming Vienna as the place of manufacture. An oval makers mark with the initials ‘AS’ is also present.

Ring size UK N, US 6.75. Under magnification there is evidence of a historical resize, consistent with age. Overall condition is very good.

A stellar example of turn of the century Viennese jewellery, combining early synthetic gemstone innovation with traditional European diamond cutting.