Vintage 1970s Gilbert Albert 18K ring with interchangeable semi-precious beads

A collectible 18K interchangeable six-bead ring from celebrated Swiss designer, Gilbert Albert. Albert (1930-2019) started his career as head of design for renowned Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe. A stand-out even at age 25, Albert pushed the limits of traditional watch design at Patek Philippe, debuting avant-garde asymmetrical watches that remain some of the most sought after designs to this day. Albert left the watchmaking industry and opened his own atelier in 1962, devoting himself to jewelry design and creation for the rest of his life. He was fascinated by the natural world and his jewelry is often organic in form and/or materials (shell, fossils, bone). He is perhaps best known for his series of statement rings with colorful interchangeable stones, like this one. Crafted in a variety of sculptural, natural designs in either 18K gold or silver, these rings come with a collection of marble-sized, polished spheres that the wearer can swap in or out depending on her mood. This version is 18K yellow gold in a sinuous, branch-like design (it reminds me of curly willow!) with six semi-precious spheres: carnelian, rutilated quartz, unakite, Tiger's eye, sodalite, and onyx. Exquisite. 

Measurements: Size 7 US, 10.9 grams mounting, 15mm round spheres
Era: 1970s
Markings: 750 (for 18K) and Gilbert Albert's hallmark