Art Nouveau Marcus & Co Aquamarine, Diamond & Enamel Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold

A delicate dress ring from the Art Nouveau period (c.1890-1915) by the House of Marcus & Co featuring three sky blue aquamarines. A long rectangular cut aquamarine takes centre stage, and has been flanked by two trilliant cut examples. Glimmering with soft summer sky tones these gemstones have been surrounded by detailed yellow gold naturalistic tendrils. Reminding us of stained glass, the spaces or “cells” between the tendril patterns have been filled with translucent soft blue enamel using the highly intricate plique-a-jour technique. Two sparkling old cut diamonds define the end points of the central aquamarine, and ensure this ring will look supremely elegant when worn. The House of Marcus & Co was founded in late 19th-century New York City, and became famous for utilising more unusual gemstones such as; tourmaline, opal & jade. The House embraced modern tastes, and became highly regarded for Art Nouveau jewels showcasing superb enamel work. Rejecting the classical constraints of traditional art, Art Nouveau embraced naturalistic forms, portraying nature in a way that had never been done before. The awareness of modernity combined with exceptional design and craftsmanship ensured that jewels bearing the Marcus & Co signature were adored by high society. The House remained in family ownership until the early 1940s when it was sold, and then merged with another famous name (Black, Starr & Frost). Widely collected by connoisseurs worldwide Art Nouveau works by Marcus & Co regularly feature in notable museum collections alongside examples by more well-known names such as; Rene Lalique & Louis Comfort Tiffany.