A solid eighteen carat yellow gold diamond and sapphire three stone ring. This beautiful ring is an example of a classic design that has been popular for generations.  The ring consists of a wide tapered band in yellow gold set with the three stones. The center stone is surrounded by two tapered, old European cut, beautifully bright and clean diamonds. Each diamond is estimated to be 0.15 carats each, VS1 clarity and F/G colour. Set in the center is a gorgeous cornflour blue cabochon sapphire.  The cab sapphire is a little over 1.2 carat The overall look is a combination of perfect jewellery making and a fabulous level of gem selection.

The three-stone rings have blossomed in popularity in recent years, gracing the hands of brides and brides-to-be. Harking back to the sentimental Victorian era, this timeless design was once imbued with deep symbolism - the three stones representing the pillars of a lasting union: loyalty, friendship, and passion. It is also regarded as representing - the past, present, and the future.  A very romantic thought.

With regards to the mix of stones themselves, this too is not without thought. Diamonds may be the traditional symbol of eternal love, but sapphires have their own timeless allure. Representing wisdom, loyalty, and fidelity, sapphires have become a popular choice for engagement rings, especially when paired with diamonds. The diamond's enduring brilliance speaks to the depths of love, while the sapphire's steadfast beauty signifies the faithfulness and honesty at the heart of a lifelong commitment. Together, these precious gems create a truly romantic and meaningful symbol of devotion.

The ring is made by one of the great names in American jewellery making, J. E. Caldwell. J.E. Caldwell & Co. traces its roots back to Philadelphia and the ambition of James Emmot Caldwell, born in 1813 in Poughkeepsie, New York. At just fourteen, Caldwell was already learning the silversmith’s trade under Peter Perret Hayes, and by 1835, his apprenticeship complete, he headed to New York City. There, he picked up the art of watchmaking from Samuel Benedict before moving to Philadelphia—a city that would become the heart of his legacy.

By 1839, Caldwell had set up shop at 163 Chestnut Street. Before long, he joined forces with James M. Bennett, and together they did business as Bennett & Caldwell. When Bennett passed away in 1848, John C. Farr stepped in as partner and the familiar name, J.E. Caldwell & Co., was born. Caldwell’s mix of sharp business sense and genuine warmth won people over, and the firm grew fast, moving shops more than once before finally landing at 902 Chestnut Street in 1868. Their displays brimmed with jewelry, silver, and art objects—many borrowing heavily from European trends and always in tune with the tastes of Philadelphia’s well-heeled set. Caldwell’s knack for staying ahead of style kept their collection fresh. In 1876, they showed off their wares at the Centennial International Exhibition, the first official World’s Fair in the U.S., drawing eyes from across the globe as nearly 10 million visitors poured into Philadelphia over six months.

When James Caldwell died in 1881, his son James Albert Caldwell took the reins. By the turn of the century, the company was crafting dazzling jewels in the new Art Nouveau style, a look that began to shape their silver, watches, and accessories as well. Their watches, fitted with movements from Vacheron Constantin, were sheathed in gold cases chased with the curving lines and floral motifs of the era. As trends shifted, so did Caldwell, embracing the Belle Époque with its platinum garlands, diamond and pearl sautoirs, and a lighter, more delicate touch—pieces from this time still command top dollar at auction.

Yet it’s the firm’s work from the Art Deco period that truly stands out. Suddenly, the curves and flourishes of yesterday were swept aside for geometry, crisp lines, and bold contrasts—diamonds everywhere, splashes of color, and a modern edge that matched the changing face of fashion. Jewelry became longer, looser, daring—think swingy necklaces, dramatic pendant drops, and wide bracelets stacked high on bare arms. Caldwell’s ads from the roaring twenties and thirties captured the spirit of the times: Egyptian and Oriental influences, yes, but also distinctly American statements of style and significance.

Austïon Homer took over as president in 1952 and quickly set about expanding the company’s reach. The first new branch landed in the Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, Delaware, followed by outposts in Princeton, King of Prussia, and New Jersey. But after several changes in ownership and a tough stretch, the flagship store closed its doors in 2003, with the last branches shuttering in 2009.

Still, jewelry from Caldwell’s heyday—especially from the early twentieth century— such as this piece, remain some of the finest ever produced in America. Even now, the Caldwell name stands out as a mark of unmistakable quality, just as it always did.

The inside of the shank is stamped with J. E. Caldwell & Co. along with the unique stamped product serial number. It also has a beautiful hand engraved personalised engraving dating from 1915. This is a gorgeous period ring, bench made and is an example of fine vintage jewellery, the likes of which is not made today. The ring is in excellent vintage condition throughout, and is a comfortable finger size 7.25 US.  It can be sized if required.

Made in America, Circa 1910.