The design of this old mine-cut diamond ring is directly inspired by a ring once owned by The Duchess of Devonshire, Deborah Cavendish, nee Mitford, which was reputedly gifted to her by her husband, Andrew, 11th Duke of Devonshire. As she was referred to affectionately, Debo commanded the many rooms of Chatsworth in partnership with her husband, the Duke, for 54 years immediately following World War II.
The original ring dates back to the 1860s and was made of silver and gold, which was appropriate for the period. The ring is now in Bell and Bird's private collection. It has been exhibited in Bakewell, Derbyshire, Chatsworth, Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, 90th Birthday Exhibition, March-October 2010.
Deborah Vivien Cavendish, The Duchess of Devonshire, was an English aristocrat writer, memoirist and socialite. She was the youngest and last surviving of the six Mitford sisters, who were well known in their time. She was an inspiring, wild, and fascinating woman.
To read more about her charmed life. Counting My Chickens . . .: And Other Home Thoughts and All in One Basket.
The original ring paired with our Bell & Bird signature cutaway silver topped gold old mine cut diamond eternity band.
Duchess Inspired Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring
The labor intensive setting technique used to create this ring are similar to those used in the 19th century. The ring can be made with antique old Mine cut stones as pictured or old European cut diamonds. This example features an antique 3.7 carat old mine cut diamond.
Price will vary with diamond choices. Most successful with a center stone of 2.5 carats or more. Inquire to discuss your budget and our stone availability. info@bellandbird.com
Handmade in our Texas workshop, this ring is in our custom blend of 18K rose gold. A more subdued, darker tone than commercially available rose gold. We call this color "old gold" and created the alloy in the spirit of the many 19th century rings we have handled.
