Gallery of Rare Jewels | David Humphrey Period Jewels

Antique Gem Set Ring

A ring that could only have been worn by a member of the elite class in 19th c. Burma or Thailand. 22K gold is set with numerous Burmese rubies together with garnets, moonstone, emerald, sapphire and diamond. A stunning ring for the collector or fine gem enthusiast.

Vintage Turquoise Silver Cuff

A strong Navajo, blackened sterling silver cuff, bezel set with 21 natural turquoise cabochons with decorated, scalloped borders and ground. 1 3/4 inches tapering to 1 3/8 inches wide. 7 inch outside length. 5 1/2 inch inside length. 141.69 grams

Edwardian Platinum, (natural) Zircon Ring

The turn of the century platinum and 18K yellow gold ring features a bright yellow Zircon weighing approx. 5.20 carats. Not to be confused with cubic zirconium, this natural stone is particularly rare due to its near pure yellow hue. 21 old mine cut diamonds grace this ring and weigh altogether approx. 2 carats.

A superb 18K gold and Jadeite, Dragon Buckle

This amazing natural color, untreated jadeite and 18K gold buckle shows two dragons chasing after the pearl of wisdom. It measures 3 x 1.75 inches
Circa mid 20th century. Signed Loong Shing.

19thc. Indian "Not a Polki" Diamond Ring

"Not a Polki" means NOT a "polki", which traditionally means an uncut diamond. Amazingly brilliant for a diamond that is likely cut shallow, this stone underscores the meaning of ADAMANTINE luster!
This diamond weighs approx. 2 carats and shines in the darkness as it reflects the slightest trace of light in a room. The top of the diamond is cut as a large table with crown facets and the stone is beautifully, scallop bezeled with a fleur-de-lys gallery, all in 22K gold. The gold has a lovely patina (oxidation.....yes, gold oxidizes) and the ring is suitable for all occasions!

Mexican Modernist Silver Brooch

Midcentury Mexican Modern - a vintage Taxco silver brooch circa 1950. Signed 3M within the Taxco Silver circle. 3M has been loosely attributed to Miguel Melendez who apprenticed with William Spratling's Taller de las Delicias in the 1940's and then went to work for Los Castillo before going out on his own. 1 1/2" Item #226MSB

Edwardian Diamond, Natural Pearl Brooch

International concert pianist, Buenaventura Galvez de Reyes, known as La Galvez, is my great grandmother. She is mentioned in Dr. Jose Rizal's late 19th century novel, Noli Me Tangere; long considered as their nation's literary masterpiece by the Filipino people. This brooch was hers, given to her by my Great Grandfather, Jose Reyes who founded the first inter-island shipping company in the Philippines.

15K and 18K Assyrian Revival Brooch circa 1845

Inspired by the archeological discoveries at Ninevah in 1842, jewelry design of the period reflected the public fascination for the exotic images of ancient Assyria such as this depiction of a deified King Arshubanipal. The verso reveals a glass compartment, typical of Victorian brooches, into which, a sentimental locket of hair could be inserted and worn close to the heart.

Belle Epoque Brooch

Belle Epoque brooch by J.E. Caldwell. Platinum, diamonds, emeralds and pearls circa 1900.

French Court Ring

French court ring of diamonds (approx. 5.00 cts) silver, 18K gold, and enamel. Paris circa 1838.

Belle Epoque Necklace

A Belle Epoque silver, diamond and 18K gold necklace fully signed by Mellerio dits Meller Paris circa 1890. This wonderfully feminine necklace transforms into two bracelets with ease.

“A large and well established family originating from Lombardy and resident in France since the time of King Francois I. Documented as goldsmiths from 1613." *

Emperor Napolean III was a constant customer from 1853 and Queen Isabella of Spain was also a customer. French nobility and aristocrats from throughout the Continent were regular customers of this Maison of renown; with salons in Paris, Biarritz, Baden-Baden and Madrid.

Antique Ruby - Natural Pearl Pendant

Late 19th century pendant set with Burmese ruby cabochons, emeralds, white sapphires and natural pearls in 20 karat gold. 2.125 x 2.125 inches

Ancient Egyptian Scarab and 18K gold Bracelet circa 1880

A bustling tourist trade in Egypt at the turn of the century was brought on by the craze for the Grand Tour of the Orient. People’s fascination with the exotic was inspired by the numerous archeological finds of the period. This brought people from the continent to the East by the shipload. Look closely at the refined treatment given the scarabs. Possibly made by an Egyptian goldsmith to European taste or likely, upon the traveler’s return to Italy or London the scarabs were given over to a local goldsmith for setting in a perceived Egyptian style.