1900s Art Nouveau 14k Gold 2-ct Opal Ring by Allsopp Bros

A lovely c. 1900s Art Nouveau Ring, collet-set with a 2 carat white opal cabochon against a gorgeous setting of 14k gold, chased and repoussé-worked throughout with tendrils of curling flowering vines. This piece is an authentic and representative example of Art Nouveau design, with its love of naturalistic imagery and desire to channel Nature’s sinuous, free-flowing contours. The chased detailing is marvelous and crisp, and wrap all the way around the back of the shank. The pale, ethereal opal provides a pleasing contract against the richness of the solid gold. Overall this is a substantial and beautifully crafted ring, weighing a hefty 5.4 grams.

According to the [A*] mark on the inner shank, this ring was made by the Allsopp Brothers of Newark NJ, a fine American jewelry firm started by two immigrant English jewelers in 1887. The firm reached its largest size in 1901, when it employed around 35 jewelers, and produced a variety of fine gold jewelry that’s become almost synonymous with the Old Newark jewelry trade.