Antique 18K .50 CTW VS/I-J Old European Cut diamond twin diamond engagement ring

Art Deco 18K white gold die-cast engagement ring with twin Old Mine Cut diamonds. This ring was made by Belais Manufacturing Co., a company founded by David Belais in the 1910s in New York City. He spent nearly 30 years experimenting with various non-tarnishing alloys and eventually submitted his final "white gold" alloy for patent in 1918. Belais was nearly sixty-years-old when the patent was granted in 1920. White gold was a good alternative to platinum, which was needed for World War I and II.

Belais is known for their beautiful mountings and this ring is no exception. The shoulders and side gallery are hand engraved with split leaves and hand sawn with clever patterns. The face is as neat as a pin, set with a pair of old mine cut diamonds, very well matched in cut, color, and clarity. The cushion-shaped stones - cut over 100 years ago - wink and flicker with every movement of the hand. Two stone rings like this are sometimes referred to as "Toi et Moi" rings - French for "You and Me." The stones are meant to represent the couple. I adore this one.

Note: This ring comes with an insurance appraisal for insurance/replacement purposes. 

Lang Antiques via Antique Jewelry University has this side note to offer about the founder of Belais Manufacturing Co.

"As an interesting aside, David Belais may be better known for his efforts on behalf of animals as the founder in 1904 of the Humane Society of New York. He served without pay as its President until his death. In 1929, he was also instrumental in establishing the first free animal clinic at the Humane Society headquarters."

Measurements: Size 6 US, 3.7 grams
Diamond details: (2) Old Mine Cut diamonds, .50 CTW, VS/IJ
Era: 1920s-1930s
Markings: BELAIS 18K 

NOTE: If you select "Size for me, please!" kindly indicate your preferred ring size at check out in the "Add a note to your order" box. Please allow 1 week for sizing to be completed.