Mid-Century Costume Ring with Octagonal Red Glass Stone
Decorative Art / Costume Jewelry • Anonymous; likely manufactured by a commercial costume jewelry company such as Sarah Coventry, Trifari, or Coro (common for this era).
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Costume Jewelry / Retro Hollywood Glamour style
Medium & Technique
Silver-toned base metal (possibly rhodium-plated or sterling silver), red faceted glass or synthetic 'ruby' stone. The setting features decorative cast metalwork with small accent stones (likely rhinestones or marcasite).
Creation Period
Circa 1940-1960 (Mid-20th Century)
Dimensions & Format
Small-scale personal ornament; stone estimated at 12mm x 10mm; standard female ring sizing.
Subject Description
A cocktail-style ring featuring a large, vibrant red octagonal-cut stone held by four double-prongs. The shoulders of the band are decorated with intricate scrolling metalwork embedded with small clear accents.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the stone appears to have sharp edges with minimal facet abrasion; metalwork shows slight patina and wear consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$45.00 - $85.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$30.00 - $60.00 USD
Provenance History
Unknown private collection. The presentation in a vintage celluloid or early plastic 'shell' box suggests a mid-20th-century gift or retail purchase.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of post-WWII commercial jewelry design, emphasizing the democratization of luxury aesthetics. These pieces allowed middle-class consumers to emulate the 'big gem' look of Hollywood starlets using affordable materials.
Notable Features
Features a distinctive Art Deco-influenced geometric cut on the central stone and a highly decorative presentation box typical of the 1950s 'presentation' style of merchandising.
Condition Issues
Possible minor oxidation of the base metal; slight accumulation of dust and skin oils in the prongs; minor yellowing of the vintage velvet presentation box.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and mild soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if stones are foil-backed; store in a dry environment away from direct sunlight.