A solid eighteen carat gold ring with a faceted Mexican Fire Opal. This style ring is akin to those worn by noblemen and kings for centuries. It is a simple formed shank that rises up to hold the stone in its center. The cut of this magnificent looking stone is a soft cushion cut with a flat girdle framing the table. The pavilion is beautifully faceted allowing enchanting light to pass through the stone and catch the eye.

This classic signet ring design, with a framed ribbed rub setting, has a thick and beautifully made shank that has a stunningly selected piece of fire opal to be set into its center. Fire opals held deep cultural significance within Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. The roughly three carat stone's vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues resonated profoundly with these sun-worshipping cultures, as they were seen as a physical embodiment of the sun's life-giving power and warmth.

The Aztecs, in particular, held fire opals in the highest regard, associating the stone with divine favor. They believed fire opals brought blessings and protection from the gods, even naming the stone "quetzalitzlipyollitli" - "stone of the bird of paradise."

Beyond their celestial symbolism, fire opals also represented strength, courage, and leadership. The fiery colors evoked a sense of determination, making the stones popular adornments for warriors and rulers. Aztec culture imbued the stone with protective qualities, believing it could ward off evil spirits and safeguard individuals from misfortune.

Fire opals were woven into the fabric of daily life, crafted into jewelry, ornaments, and decorative items that served as a constant reminder of their cultural significance. They are believed to promote emotional balance, release negativity, and foster a sense of peace, increase creativity, inspiration, and a boost in self-confidence. Some even believing fire opal can aid with issues related to the eyes, heart, and reproductive system.

The condition is excellent, it is worn, but shows no damage. It can be brought up to a high shine if required, but the choice is made to leave this in a 'as found' condition to keep the integrity of an old piece. The ring is English made and features a wonderful crisp set of hallmarks having been made in London in 1919, is a US size 7 ring size, but can easily be sized if needed. It has makers marks of "G&Co", but the maker cannot be accurately ascertained.