THE ultimate romantic symbol – the diamond ring – was the sparkling star of the show at Greenslade Taylor Hunt’s June antiques sale.

This particular example was a stunning 1.7carat diamond solitaire ring and sold for £1,800 at The Octagon Salerooms, East Reach, Taunton.

There was a good buzz in the saleroom with bidders from around the country attending the auction.

One successful buyer, who bought a display cabinet, travelled from Southampton to pick up her prized lot.

As well as a range of display cabinets, which sold well, there was a comprehensive range of stylish and practical furniture.

A Flemish side cabinet, which attracted a good deal of pre-sale interest sold for £1,000, from a pre-sale guide of £400-£600.

A tall chest of five graduated drawers with ebonised and gilded Chinoiserie decoration, in good condition, sold for £600.

An unusual Beswick Beatrix Potter figure, 'Duchess with flowers,’ also in good condition sold for £550.

An Omega Seamaster gentleman’s watch made £420 and there were pleasing prices throughout the silver section. A George VI silver salver sold for £450 and another sliver salver achieved the same mark, while an attractive silver tea set went for £440. Three examples of silver bullion each sold for £280.

The next sale takes place in its traditional slot – the first Thursday of the month, following a switch in June to avoid a clash with the Jubilee Bank Holiday.

July’s sale is on Thursday, July 7, at The Octagon Salerooms, East Street, Taunton, from 10am.

It will include a large section celebrating 20th century design items. Put together by valuer Simon Rayner, there will be a good cross section of furniture from the period. These will be auctioned at the conclusion of the monthly antiques sale.

For further information call the saleroom on 01823 332525.