Pietra Dura, an Italian plural meaning "hard rocks" or "hardstones" is a term for the inlay technique of using cut and fitted, highly polished colored stones to create images. It is considered a decorative art. The stonework, after the work is assembled loosely, is glued stone-by-stone to a substrate after having previously been "sliced and cut in different shape sections; and then assembled together so precisely that the contact between each section was practically invisible". Stability was achieved by grooving the undersides of the stones so that they interlocked, rather like a jigsaw puzzle, with everything held tautly in place by an encircling 'frame'. Many different colored stones, particularly marbles, were used, along with semiprecious, and even precious. It first appeared in Rome in the 16th century, reaching its full maturity in Florence.
This dramatic ring has a 14 karat gold setting, with a silver shank. Pale florals decorate a black background, creating a wonderful little mosaic work of art that will accessorize anything from your white button down to your black hoodie!
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 5.5
Weight: 5,47 grams
Materials: Gold, Silver, Hardstone
Metal: 14K yellow gold (setting), Silver (shank)
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear