Chaumet (French, est. 1780), Ring with Interchangeable Stones, 1970, gold, lapis lazuli, carnelian, quartz, malachite

Audio Description

This ring was designed and manufactured in 1970 by French jewelry house Chaumet, which was established in 1780.

Shown with its original box, this ring is made of yellow gold with a tall textured central focus. Each of the stones is a pyramidal shape with the top point removed. The stones are a deep blue lapis lazuli, a red carnelian, a clear white piece of quartz, and a dark green piece of malachite. The box is blue leather with a pale, yellow velvet interior.

Label Copy

This ring was designed and manufactured in 1970 by French jewelry house Chaumet, which was established in 1780.

Accompanied by its original box, this textured gold ring comes with four geometrically cut semi-precious stones—lapis lazuli, carnelian, quartz, and malachite—that can be inserted into place from the back. The gold seems to ‘grasp’ the gem, but it is the finger that keeps it in place once the ring is on the hand. Perhaps an original version of the mood ring, first marketed in 1975, this example is perfect for the jet set. Instead of packing four rings on a trip to match differing ensembles, only one was needed. The stones are interchangeable to coordinate with the dress, and mood, of the wearer.

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