This rare pink-purple Umbalite brings me joy whenever I’m near it. Skillfully set in a tight low-profile multi prong design with a frame of post-consumer reclaimed single cut diamonds. Spiraling varied sized rubies enwrap the delicately crafted gallery for a dainty minimal design that yet packs a lot of gem power and vivacious energy. Umbalite is a new variety of Garnet that was discovered in Tanzania around 2015. This prize example was masterfully cut in 2016 and has reminded in my private collection until, slightly reluctantly, I decided to set it. Certainly it could be a truly unique engagement ring or perhaps a ring bought for oneself in celebration.
In the Old Testament, a Garnet is said to have illuminated Noah’s Ark and Garnet (carbuncle) was also one of the gems in the ‘breastplate of judgment’ (Exodus 28:15-30), the impetus for birthstones in Western culture. Crusaders considered Garnet so symbolic of Christ’s sacrifice that they set them into their armor for protection. In Islam, Garnets illuminate the fourth heaven, while for Norsemen, they guide the way to Valhalla. A Grimm’s fairy-tale even tells of an old lady, who upon rescuing an injured bird was rewarded for her kindness with a Garnet that glowed, illuminating the night. Whatever you believe this simply stunning ring is sure to impress and bring light, joy, and warmth to it’s wearer.
US Ring Size 5.5. This ring can be resized. Recycled 18k Rose Gold. Handcrafted in NYC.
Center Stone: 3.75 Carat, Modified Oval Cut, Umbalite Pinkish Purple Garnet, (GAL Report 201914388) (Tanzania).
Side Stones: Twenty x 1.5mm Vintage Single Cut, G Color, VS Clarity, Diamonds (0.25ctw); and fifty-two brilliant cut purplish-red rubies (0.45ctw)
