Victorian Gold in Quartz Ring

A sleek half-dome gold-rush souvenir ring circa 1880, crafted in yellow gold set in the front with a slice of cabochon-cut gold-in-quartz, the gold veins creating a glowing pattern against the smoky color of the stone.

Details: Measuring approximately 6.7 mm north to south at the center front with a 3.36 mm rise above the finger when worn. Not marked for gold content, but XRF tests to 12k, weighs approximately 2.4 grams

Size: 6 1/2, resizing is not recommended.

Condition: In excellent condition with a gentle antique patina speaking to its age and history. The quartz has natural inclusions but no chips or significant scratches.

History: The term "gold-rush" refers to a discovery of gold ore that brings about a massive onslaught of potential miners and fortune seekers to the area. There were major 19th century colonial gold-rushes in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, as well as the U.S, and gold rush souvenir jewelry was quite popular, for both those at home and those who traveled to mining regions. These pieces often came in the form of shovel and pick brooches, or rings and lockets set with gold quartz specimens.

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