Diamond cluster rings were very popular in Europe starting in the second half of the 18th century, and Portugal is largely responsible for this rising style. What some people don’t realize is that Portugal was a world super power for many centuries, largely due to their commitment to colonization and trade. All of this is to say that, in 1727, Portugal discovered a diamond mine, Minas Gevais, in their then colony, Brazil. You can’t overstate the importance this had on Portuguese and European jewelry. Suddenly diamonds were plentiful, and the Portuguese had the wealth to use them in abundance. The age of diamonds had arrived!

This ring gently wraps around the finger, making it appear like the entire ring is covered in sparkling diamonds. Three elongated cushion stones anchor the design, with smaller stones added in a symmetrically pleasing manner.  The stones are set in silver and backed in gold, which was common practice for 18th century diamonds, and the shank has a series of reeded bands. It is interesting to note that there are 3 small holes behind the cushions, these would have been added to allow for optimal light to pass through the very bright stones.There is a lot of open space, making it seem like the diamonds are floating on the finger.

Portugal, ca 1780