Harriet's Ruby Solitaire

Lady Peter Wimsey, (aka the former Miss Harriet Vane) was given a magnificent ruby solitaire as an engagement ring by Lord Peter, when she finally consented to his ever-patient proposal.  It was early fall, 1934, in Oxford, England, and after solving the mysterious and quite scandalous goings-on at Shrewsbury College, Harriet and Lord Peter reconciled their differences and acknowledged their deep affection for each other. (Gaudy Night, by Dorothy L Sayers, pub 1936.)

This brilliant red shawl is sprinkled with ruby-red beads in each of the lace medallions, as they drift across the width of the shawl, and in the border edging.  While Harriet was not one to wear frilly lace or glittery baubles, she would appreciate the elegance of such a shawl, as she cherished her ruby solitaire and her beloved Lord Peter.

I used one of my favourite yarns for this shawl - Sirdar Baby Bamboo, which is a DK weight, a blend of bamboo and wool.  Washable (by hand), soft fabric, intense color, and nicely drapey.  What more could a knitter ask ?

This pattern is available in my Ravelry store for $8.00 (US)  www.ravelry.com

Back to knitting - I have two more to finish this month !

Happy knitting, everyone...