Mid-Century Engraved Wedding Band
Decorative art / Jewelry / Ring • American commercial jeweler; retail label indicates a Seattle, Washington origin
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Traditional
Medium & Technique
Yellow gold (likely 10k or 14k) or gold-filled metal; achieved through casting and hand-engraved or machine-turned feather/wheat leaf patterning
Creation Period
Circa 1940s–1960s (Mid-20th Century)
Dimensions & Format
Circular band; approximately 5-7mm in width; standard adult ring size
Subject Description
A classic domed wedding band featuring a central band of rhythmic, diagonal engraved notches suggesting a wheat or feather motif, bordered by polished edges
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows visible surface scratches, light tarnish, and wear consistent with age and daily use
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $350 (highly dependent on gold karat weight and metal purity)
Auction Estimate
$75 - $250
Provenance History
Seattle, Washington (retailer label visible in box); likely a family heirloom used for a wedding ceremony during the mid-20th century
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of utilitarian American bridal jewelry from the post-WWII era, reflecting the shift toward mass-produced but decorative precious metalwork
Notable Features
Housed in a period-correct cream-colored plastic or celluloid presentation box with a blue velvet insert and a vintage Seattle-based retailer's label
Condition Issues
Surface abrasions, minor scuffs, slight loss of crispness in the engraving due to friction, and typical patina of age on the metal
Conservation Recommendations
Professional ultrasonic cleaning and light polishing by a jeweler; store in the provided velvet-lined celluloid or plastic box to prevent further scratches