Superb ruby and diamond ring, Cartier

Set with a cushion-shaped ruby weighing 8.37 carats, within a mount of scroll design set with pear-shaped, step- and brilliant-cut diamonds, size 51, signed Cartier, numbered, French assay and maker's marks.

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 62508 and Gübelin report no. 16100092, each stating that the cushion-shaped ruby weighing 8.37 carats and measuring 11.41 x 11.24 x 7.23mm, is of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating, 'pigeon blood' colour according to the Gübelin report, together with an appendix letter from the SSEF. Also accompanied by a Cartier certificate of authenticity. Signed Cartier, numbered TV5439, French maker's mark. French assay mark and stamped PT 950 for platinum. Inscribed 51 referring to the size of the ring. Ruby red of medium strong saturation, 'pigeon blood' colour according to the Gübelin report, with typical inclusions, some surface reaching; for further details on the stone, please refer to the gemmological reports. Diamonds bright and lively, stated to weigh a total of approximately 2.89 carats, according to the Cartier certificate. Little signs of wear to the metal. In very good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Long honoured in history as a gemstone of sovereigns, warlords and lovers, the ruby was worn by noble rulers and formed an important part of their regalia. Ancient Indian texts refer to the ruby as ratnaraj, meaning "king of gemstones". 

Ruby deposits are found across the globe, in place such Afghanistan, Cambodia, East Africa, Thailand and Vietnam. All deposits have yielded fine-quality gem material, but certain locations have gained reputations as consistent producers of exceptional stones: Burmese rubies are considered preeminent. Rubies were likely first discovered in the Mogok area of Burma as far back as the Stone Age. However, local legends claim that Mogok was founded in 579 AD, and various records indicate that rubies were discovered at that time. 

Burmese rubies have long been considered as the most desirable rubies in the world and the crimson glow that very fine examples possess merit the descriptive term of 'pigeon blood' for their high colour intensity. Famous for their rare combination of rich colour intensity and red UV-fluorescence, Mogok rubies also exhibit a velvety softness caused by the tiny needle inclusions which scatter light throughout the stone. Of all the locations in which rubies are found, the Mogok region is renowned for producing the distinctive intense red colours and bright red fiery brilliance, which are the benchmark by which all fine rubies are judged.