Simulated Sapphire & Marcasite Rings: History & Identification

Question
I have a ring that I was told is a simulated sapphire, approximately 5-6 carats in a square cut on top with  minimal bezel on the sides.  It is surrounded by marcasite.  Do you have any idea when these stones were first used in rings?  Thanks

Answer
Hello,

I am not sure which stones you asking about or both.  As to the history while not my profession
here is a little write up for marcasite.


The sixty-four year period between 1837 to 1901 is known as the Victorian era, and this period was marked by the ascension of a young Victoria to the throne of England. This was a time of great romance, epic tragedies (especially with the death of Victoria's husband Prince Albert in 1861) and unparalleled prosperity.

Jewelry designs of the era fell into three broad categories: the Romantic period (1837 to 1860) which was marked by jewelry with complex engravings, subtle enamel work and serpentine designs; the Grand Period (1861 to 1888) which coincided with Victoria's bereavement and therefore was marked by jewelry reflecting dark, somber themes; and the Late Victorian period (1889 to 1901) where diamonds ruled and jewelry pieces were decidedly whimsical and spectacular.

Immediately after Queen Victoria's death, there was a brief period of change in jewelry design, known as the Art Noveau - marked by jewelry inspired by nature and themes mythological in origin - and the Edwardian period characterized by jewelry of airy lightness and cool elegance reflective of British aristocracy and wealthy American industrialists.

The designs of the era - marked by an abundance of small but brilliant stones (especially during the Late Victorian era and the Art Noveau/Edwardian period) inlaid in silver and other precious metals - are experiencing a revival today. Modern Victorian-era inspired jewelry, however, are making use of a mineral called marcasite or white pyrite instead of the usual stones. Marcasite (sometimes called white pyrite or white iron pyrite) are actually pyrite crystals that are made into jewelry.

The use of Marcasite has ensured a popular choice for jewelry of all types.

As for the synthetic sapphire they were invented in the early 1900's.

Hope this helps,

Steven D.Covey