Legendary Gambler's Sapphire and Diamond Ring

A sapphire and diamond ring centring a rectangular step-cut sapphire weighing 15.40 carats between marquise-cut diamond shoulders, estimated total diamond weight 0.80 carats, mounted in gold, ring size O. Accompanied by GSL report AA65701/1 dated 7 December 2021 stating that the natural rectangular step-cut sapphire is of Ceylon origin with no evidence of heat treatment. Patricia Taylor was gifted this ring by her husband Joe Taylor. Joe Taylor will remain one of Australia's most legendary gamblers as well as nightclub and illegal gambling house owner. One of the true legends of the Australian turf, Joe Taylor, nicknamed 'The Boss' was a regular in the betting ring at Sydney's racetracks and feared by bookmakers. He operated an illegal gambling casino 'Thommos', in a back alley of Surry hills. He also operated several baccarat schools and became the owner of 'The Celebrity Club', a famous nightclub which was a major attraction in the 1950s and 60s amongst the racing fraternity. He never hesitated to import the best entertainers of the day from the United Sates, including Diana Barrymore and Don Beddoe. The Celebrity club was also a 'home' for legendary Australian entertainer Norman 'The big Man' Erskine. Joe Taylor is said to have bet his entire winnings from his 1962 golden slipper winner birthday card, on another of his horses named high row which he believed was a certainty. High row ran last and it was rumoured he had to borrow taxi money to get home.