Antique three stone rings are rich in symbolism and meaning, making particularly romantic engagement rings. They can also signify life’s other important events, including special birthdays, an anniversary or marking a new addition to the family. Whatever the occasion, we have a wealth of choices from different time periods.
Antique three stone rings come in a multitude of variations and styles, from three stones of the same size; a larger central stone; a vertical three stone working the length of the finger; a cross over style, often set diagonally; and the dazzling triple cluster. In antique jewellery, the period in which the piece was made usually defines the overall feel, including the style, the shapes and the metals used. In every case, the three stone is comprised of three main elements.
The three elements of the three stone can hold a different meaning for everyone. Romantically, they can stand for three special words such as ‘I love you’, ‘you, me, us’, or even ‘the past, present and future’. To some, they can symbolise the presence of others in their life for example children, the holy trinity or even a lasting friendship. Others are simply drawn to the beautiful appearance of the three stone on the finger, enjoying the coverage that other styles cannot achieve.
One of the earliest examples in our collection is the 17th century Jaipur enamel and old mine diamond three stone ring. In this rare piece, the two diamonds frame the central enamel glass, adding a touch of sparkle and heightening its importance. This combination of a central coloured stone flanked by diamonds has evolved to be a classic that is seen across the periods. The way in which diamonds highlight the hue of a coloured gemstone is unparalleled, adding a highly desired brightness and contrast while still maintaining elegance; a combination which can in most cases be worn every day.
Different periods saw a range of different stylistic takes on the three stone. Creating a slightly more dazzling look, a cluster of diamonds around three stones forms the impressive triple cluster. Among our collection we have early examples of this style from the Georgian period, see 17620 and also into the 1950’s, see 12609. Coming into the Victorian period, carved rings set with three graduated or similar sized stones in yellow gold were popular, see 19310 and 17158. Contrastingly the delicate Edwardian and 1920’s period saw platinum set designs, inviting more elaborate three stones that worked the length of the finger and also in ornate crossover designs, see 21086, 17822 and 18436, 17473. Art deco three stone rings and the later periods often embraced simple three stone designs with bold, clean lines, see 20126, 19465, and 18687, 21070.
Regardless of their age or style, the beauty of antique and vintage three stone rings lies in their handmade and unique nature. Find your perfect three stone ring in our extensive collection of rarities at Berganza.
