If there is one thing I can always be relied upon to love, it is the glow of a foiled garnet… And if you’ve never met a Perpignan up close and personally before, you are in for an indulgence. Perpignan garnets have a special history- the were only mined between the 17th-20th centuries in the Perpignan region, which straddles France’s southern most border with Spain.

Tucked into an elusive corner of the alps, Perpignan shares a special symbol of Catalan culture in these rare stones. In fact, the artisans who have, for the past centuries created these treasures are celebrated yearly in the Fête de la Saint Eloi, when they parade through the village, every third Saturday of December, tools in hand.

But so coveted are the strawberry tones of these garnets that the craftspeople today work with different mediums entirely; for it is illegal to now mine any of the remaining Perpignan garnets from their alpine deposits.

This incredibly French ring is a beautiful example of the vivid Perpignan garnet of the 19th century. Crafted circa 1855, under the reign of Napoleon III, this ring boasts effervescent miniature pink garnets halo’ing a simply opulent ruby-red Perpignan stone. Equally stunning is the 18 ct shank, which is rosy in hue and features delicate European craftspersonship.

Whether dressed up for formalwear or worn as a cheeky statement piece, this museum quality adornment is a beautiful addition to any antique jewelry collection!

Materials and Features: Perpignan Garnet, 18ct, foil

Age/Origin: 1855, French, Hallmarked (eaglehead)

Measurements: Size 7.25, 3.3g

Condition: Excellent condition for her age.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.