Tourmaline and diamond "Episcopal" ring, 1870s

Set to the centre with a cushion-shaped tourmaline within a surround of cushion-shaped diamonds, to a scroll engraved mount, the shoulders embellished with mitre motifs, size Z+.

Mounted in silver and gold, minor abrasions commensurate with age and wear, internal sizing band not removable ring size Z plus. Tourmaline mid to dark green, estimated approximately 17.1 x 14.9 x 9.3 = 14.60 carats. Diamonds bright and lively with mixed colours and clarities, estimated approximately 2.00-2.50 carats in total, J-L colour and I/included clarity on average.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones.
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."

Episcopal rings are issued by the Vatican and are usually engraved gold rings that will be returned upon the death or retirement of the Cardinal. Once appointed a Cardinal will usually commission a gem set ring. The favoured stones used in Ecclesiastical rings were sapphire, amethyst, ruby and tourmaline. Such rings are sometimes gifted by the diocese, remaining the property of the trust. In some cases the ring may be interred with the Cardinal upon his death. The large size is so they can be worn over a glove during full ceremonial regalia, sometimes with an additional band to enable them to be worn without a glove.