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Our newest engagement ring of the week is also one of the most recent arrivals to Doyle & Doyle. An incredible Belle Epoque emerald and diamond ring circa 1900, it’s had us all spellbound and eagerly vying to try it on.
This style of ring is poetically named “moi et toi”, or “me and you” for the non-Francophile. A sparkling Old Mine cut diamond and a velvety emerald, you and your betrothed… Could anything be more romantic? We’ve selected colorful antique wedding jewels to play off the historical romance theme: a heart amethyst festoon, emerald and diamond studded entwined snakes, and a delicate row of sapphires.
Perhaps the most famous “moi et toi” ring is the delicate sapphire and diamond ring that 26 year old Napoleon Bonaparte gave Marie Josèphe Rose Tascher de La Pagerie, later known simply as Josephine. The ring remained in her family until it went up for auction in March of this year, just in time to coincide with Josephine’s 250th birthday. The day of the auction, Napoleon and Josephine’s ring blew away the estimate, selling to the lucky bidder for over $1 million.
Take inspiration from the many letters Napoleon wrote Josephine while separated from her during military campaigns. Pen a love letter to your intended on your wedding day, or any day:
“My happiness is to be near you. The charms of the incomparable Josephine kindle continually a burning and a glowing flame in my heart… Believe me it is not in my power to have a single thought which is not of thee, or a wish I could not reveal to thee.”
What historical romance inspires you?
