Mid-Century Diamond Bridal Set in Lester Berg Presentation Box
Decorative art and jewelry; set consisting of an engagement ring, wedding band, and original celluloid/plastic presentation case. • Retail brand: Lester Berg Jeweler (Seattle, Washington). The jewelry manufacturer is likely an American workshop contracted by the retailer.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Late Art Deco influence (Illusion setting).
Medium & Technique
Diamonds (likely round brilliant or transitional cut), white gold or platinum mountings, and a molded cream-colored plastic/celluloid case with velvet and silk lining.
Creation Period
Circa 1940s-1950s (Mid-Century/Post-War Era).
Dimensions & Format
Jewelry: standard ladies' ring sizes (approx. 5-7). Box: approx. 3 x 2 x 1.5 inches.
Subject Description
A classic bridal duo consisting of a solitaire engagement ring and a matching contoured wedding band. The rings feature an 'illusion setting' common to the era, which uses notched metal plates around the diamond to make the stone appear larger. The presentation box features scrollwork and a shell motif, typical of mid-century commercial decorative arts.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; the box shows minor yellowing and dust commensurate with age; jewelry requires professional cleaning; pavé stones appear intact.
Estimated Market Value
$600 - $1,200 (Subject to metal weight, diamond carat weight, and clarity).
Auction Estimate
$400 - $800.
Provenance History
Originally retailed by Lester Berg Jeweler at 1416 Third Avenue, Seattle, Washington. Represents a typical mid-20th-century American middle-class bridal purchase.
Art Historical Significance
Illustrates the commercial jewelry trends of the American Post-War boom. The 'Lester Berg' branding provides a specific geographic and historical context for Seattle’s downtown retail history during the mid-20th century.
Notable Features
Includes the original Lester Berg Jeweler merchant label inside the lid, which significantly increases the charm and collectible value for local historical interest.
Condition Issues
Visible oxidation on the metal surfaces; slight discoloration of the cream plastic box; indentation in the velvet lining from long-term storage.
Conservation Recommendations
Ultrasonic cleaning for the rings; soft dry brush for the velvet interior; store in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent further yellowing of the case plastic.