Fred, ruby and diamond cluster ring. Set with twenty three round old cut natural unenhanced rubies in open back grain settings with an approximate combined weight of 4.50 carats, further set with twenty four round brilliant cut diamonds in open back grain settings with an approximate combined weight of 3.30 carats, to an elegant floral domed bombé cluster with intricate honeycomb backholing and trumpeted shoulders, tapering down to a solid D-shape shank. Marked 18 carat yellow gold, maker's mark for Fred, numbered 'A784', French, circa 1960.

The bold and brightly-colored jewellery creations by Fred are truly outstanding.

Infused with a constant joie de vivre and bold creativity that upended traditional jewellery codes at the time, his jewellery became the signature of a new informal glamour and sparkling, relaxed elegance.

Born in 1908 to French parents who had emigrated to Argentina, Fred Samuel grew up in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires. Upon his return to France in the 1930s, Fred Samuel was immersed in a world of artists, writers and musicians. No doubt influenced by his social circle as well his vibrant Argentinian childhood, Fred created pieces inspired by "life, light, movement, energy.”

Following the war, the business became known simply as 'Fred', and they concentrated on producing their signature bold, colourful jewellery and accessories, while building a loyal clientele that included Marlene Dietrich and Barbara Hutton.

In the 1990’s Fred created a necklace which became one of the most famous pieces of jewellery in movie history when Richard Gere presented Julia Roberts with the stunning ruby and diamond necklace which featured twenty-three rubellite hearts in the famous scene from the film Pretty Woman. This is why Fred has also been referenced as, ‘the jeweller to the cinema’.

This ring is in excellent condition.