Ilias Lalaounis 18ct Gold Sapphire and Ruby Mosaic Byzantine Ring 8.1g

Ilias Lalaounis 18ct Gold Sapphire and Ruby Mosaic Byzantine Ring weighing 8.1g -
this ring showcases a highly sought after gem set mosaic Byzantine v-shaped design by the renowned and revered Greek jewellery designer Ilias Lalaounis.  It features a stunning array of seven gemstones set on vari-shaped angular platforms, with three flush set ruby cabochons and four claw set round faceted sapphires, all with open backs for maximum brilliance:

One large ruby cabochon, 5.5mm, approximately 1.10 carats  

Two small ruby cabochons, 3mm each, approximately 0.19 carats each (0.38 carats total)  

One sapphire, 3mm, approximately 0.13 carats  

Two sapphires, 2.5mm each, approximately 0.09 carats each (0.18 carats total)  

One sapphire, 1.5mm, approximately 0.03 carats

Total gemstone weight: approximately 1.82 carats.  

This beautiful ring with mosaic tile finish and milgrain edging exudes unparalleled Byzantine charm, sized at UK P 1/2 (US 8) with its V-shape extending 2.6cm from band edge to the pointed tip.  Please note a subtle split on the top edge of the milgrain, noticeable on very close inspection, which does not affect the rings structural integrity and it does not detract from its visual appeal.  The large ruby exhibits typical inclusions some surface-reaching, typical of Lalaounis’ use of natural stones, and remains securely flush set.  Signed with '750' for 18ct gold, their pictomark logo (fish sign), and 'A.21' (the Athens factory mark), this ring is estimated to date from circa the 1970s or 1980s, a significant period for Lalaounis’ Byzantine mosaic designs.

This extraordinarily beautiful ring showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and vision of this inimitable jeweller, and captures the very essence of ancient Byzantine opulence and grandeur  - a truly mesmerising design.  Understandably, these cherished gem set mosaic rings do not come on the market very often.

This order includes complimentary global private courier and our exquisite gift wrapping, all part of Bramble & Lily’s signature care.

Ilias Lalaounis, born in 1920 in Athens, Greece, founded his eponymous jewellery house in 1969 after working with his family’s firm, Zolotas, where he honed his craft in reviving ancient Greek techniques.  Renowned for his historically inspired designs, Lalaounis drew from Byzantine, Minoan, and classical motifs, often using 18ct gold and vibrant gemstones to create pieces that blended antiquity with modern elegance.  His work gained international acclaim, leading to boutiques in Paris, London, and New York, and he became the first jeweller inducted into the French Academy of Fine Arts in 1990.  Lalaounis died on December 30, 2013, in Athens, Greece, but his legacy endures through his iconic designs celebrated for their artistry and cultural resonance.