Victorian Style Marquise and Heart Motif Ring
Decorative Art / Jewelry - Finger Ring • Mass-produced or boutique jeweler (unidentified); inspired by Victorian-era 'Dearest' or romantic sentimental jewelry.
Style & Movement
Victorian Revival / Romanticism
Medium & Technique
Cast and worked metal (likely sterling silver or low-karat gold) with bezel-set marquise-cut center stone and two heart-cut accent stones (possibly synthetic or lab-created garnets/rubies), featuring beaded milgrain and scrollwork details.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Modern reproduction in the Victorian style)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20mm x 10mm face; standard ring band size; portrait orientation on the finger.
Subject Description
The ring features a central marquise-shaped stone symbolizing an eye or almond shape, flanked vertically by two heart-shaped crimson stones. The metalwork incorporates ornate scrolls, filigree-like textures, and beaded edges characteristic of 19th-century romantic ornaments.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good - The item appears wearable but shows signs of oxidation/tarnish in the recessed areas of the metal and some surface wear on the facets of the stones.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $120 USD (Assuming base metal/silver and synthetic stones)
Auction Estimate
$30 - $75 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through retail or estate sale; no visible hallmarks or maker's marks are discernible in the provided image to track specific lineage.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the enduring popularity of 'Sentimental Jewelry' from the Victorian era. While a modern piece, it follows the iconographic tradition where hearts represent love and the marquise shape often denotes 'The Eye of the Beloved'.
Notable Features
The vertical alignment of the heart stones is an unusual variation of the classic three-stone 'trilogy' layout, emphasizing a decorative 'totem' style on the finger.
Condition Issues
Visible oxidation (tarnish) on the metal surface; potential loosening of prongs/bezels; minor abrasions on the stone tables; build-up of organic debris in set crevices.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional ultrasonic cleaning or gentle polishing with a jeweler's cloth; inspection of stone settings by a bench jeweler to ensure security; store in a dry, tarnish-resistant pouch.
Collector Notes
Value