Antique Victorian opal and diamond heart cluster ring 18 carat Gold

Era: Victorian C.1887
Metal: 18ct Gold, partially hallmarked and tested
Gemstones: Opal 7.3x7.8mm, Diamonds 18 x 1.5mm
Weight: 3.1 grams
Total heart 12x12.7mm
Size: UK K.5/US 5.5
 
Here we have a gorgeous Victorian opal and diamond heart ring, dating to 1887.
 
The opal has a fantastic play of colour, showing lots of vivid red and purple as well as flecks of blue and green, all dancing over the white base. It is surrounded by a halo of 18 old cut Diamonds, all held in a coronet setting over a raised gallery.
 
It has trifurcated shoulders, that join at the shoulders and taper to a 1.5mm shank at the reverse. 
 
There is a partial hallmark with a makers mark that then looks like it has been cut from a previous sizing and just the anchor for birmingham and date stamp for 1887 remain.