This 14k gold ring is reminiscent of a briar patch, with four iridescent fire opals held within twisted vines of 14k gold. The gorgeous fire opals are mesmerizing to look at—they have beautiful orange overtones with flashes of green and purple that flicker within the stones like flames. Their glow is complemented by textured 14k gold carved to resemble the sinews of a vine, and the cabochons are held in place by scalloped prongs that echo the idea of thorns. The texture of the gold continues all the way around the band and the weave of vines has depth above the finger— giving the sense that it truly was picked from nature. There is something fairytale-esque about this piece and it reminds us of Sleeping Beauty.
A briar patch is a tangled thicket of thorny plants and can serve as a metaphor for a tricky obstacle. Wearing a tiny section of it as a ring might symbolize overcoming an obstacle and remembering the strength and courage it took to do so.
The ring contains 4.5 carats of natural fire opals. There are four opals that range in size from 9.5 x 8 mm to 7 x 6 mm. The opals are colorful and vibrant with multi-colored hues that shimmer with movement. There is a small chip in the back of one of the opals, most likely acquired when the stone was placed in the ring. It is not visible when worn and does not affect the integrity of the stone.
The face of the ring measures 15/16” x 1”. It expands out along the finger in an elegant curve. The ring sits approximately 5/16” above the finger. It weighs 10.2 grams. Marked on the interior as 14k.
Ring size 7 with the ability to be resized.
Circa the 1970’s.
