Mastery of Design: The Joan Hurst Ring, 1975

Ring of Gold, Diamonds and a Single Sapphire, 1975
The Victoria & Albert Museum

This ring is more modern than those which I usually write about, but it combines traditional, precious materials and sensibilities with the bold, abstract designs which were fashionable in the 1970s.  This is among the many interesting jewels made in Europe in the 1960s and 1970s which honored the traditions of their predecessors but remained true to their own styles.  Curiously, though the ring dates to 1975 and was made in Germany, we’re not sure who the designer was as the maker’s mark is unidentifiable.

A broad band of textured gold increases in width towards the front where a linear pattern of gold ribs is set with three diamonds (above) and a sapphire (below).  It was donated to the V&A by Miss Joan Hurst.