Vintage Mid-Century Ruby and Diamond Ballerina Ring, 1.5ct Ruby, 14K Two-Tone Gold

A pinkish-red ruby sits at the center, faceted rather than cabochon-cut, so it throws real fire alongside its color instead of the softer glow a cabochon gives. Radiating out from it, forty-two diamonds — a mix of round brilliants and tapered baguettes; build a stepped, sunburst-like frame, the baguettes angled outward like spokes so the whole top of the ring reads as motion rather than a static halo. This "ballerina" construction, named for the way the tapered stones fan out like a dancer's skirt, was a signature mid-century setting style, prized for making a moderate center stone look considerably larger. Two-tone 14K gold: yellow for the shank, white for the diamond mount keeps the diamonds bright against the warmth of the band.

Excellent vintage condition; light surface marks on the yellow gold shank consistent with age; stones are secure with no visible chips or damage. Size 5. Weighs 9.0 grams total.