Vintage Gold-Toned Ring with Oval Turquoise Cabochon and Ornate Filigree Appraisal
Category: Jewelry
Description
This is an antique or vintage ring featuring an oval-shaped turquoise cabochon set in a gold-toned metal band. The central turquoise stone is bezel-set and exhibits a mottled appearance with various shades of blue-green, along with darker matrix inclusions, suggesting natural, untreated turquoise or a composite stone like mosaic turquoise. The stone measures approximately 15mm in length and 10mm in width. The metal setting appears to be a tarnished brass, bronze, or possibly a low-karat gold alloy, displaying a warm, aged patina. The sides of the ring's bezel feature ornate, scrolled filigree or repoussé work, characteristic of Art Nouveau or Art Deco styles, or perhaps a more generalized vintage ornate aesthetic. These decorative elements are symmetrical on both sides of the central stone. The band itself is solid and appears to be of moderate thickness. There are no visible maker's marks or hallmarks in the image. The overall condition shows signs of wear consistent with age, including surface scratches on the metal and possibly minor abrasions on the stone, though no significant chips or cracks are immediately apparent. The patina on the metal adds to its antique appeal, indicating it has not been recently polished. The craftsmanship appears to be robust, though not exceptionally refined, suggesting it was likely mass-produced for a broader market.
Appraisal Report
I have examined the provided image of this vintage gold-toned ring with an oval turquoise cabochon and ornate filigree. **Condition and Authenticity:** Visually, the ring presents as an authentic vintage piece with a warm, aged patina on the metal, consistent with brass, bronze, or a low-karat gold alloy. The turquoise cabochon shows natural matrixing and color variations, suggesting it could be natural or a composite, which significantly impacts value. The absence of significant chips or cracks on the stone and the intact filigree work suggest reasonable preservation for its age. Wear consistent with age is present, including surface scratches, but no major damage. The overall craftsmanship appears robust but not overly refined, aligning with a mass-produced vintage item rather than a high-end designer piece. **Market Conditions & Comparables:** Demand for vintage turquoise jewelry remains steady, especially pieces with an Art Nouveau or Art Deco aesthetic, even if mass-produced. Comparable items in similar condition, typically brass or bronze, with natural or composite turquoise cabochons of this size, range from $75 to $150 in online vintage marketplaces. If the metal were confirmed as higher karat gold, the value would increase significantly. **Demand & Rarity:** While appealing aesthetically, this specific design is not particularly rare. The primary demand driver is its vintage charm and the presence of turquoise. The value is largely driven by its decorative appeal rather than intrinsic material value or historical significance. **Factors Impacting Value:** The most significant factor impacting value is the unconfirmed metal composition. If the 'gold-toned' metal is confirmed as brass or bronze, the value remains modest. However, if it proves to be low-karat gold (e.g., 9K, 10K), the value would increase substantially, likely in the $200-$400 range, depending on gold content. Similarly, confirmation of natural, untreated turquoise versus composite or treated turquoise would also increase value. The lack of hallmarks limits definitive identification. **Limitations in Authenticity Verification:** My appraisal is limited by the visual nature of the examination. For full authentication and accurate valuation, an in-person examination is crucial. This would allow for: * **Metal Testing:** To definitively identify the metal composition (e.g., acid testing or XRF analysis for gold content). * **Gemological Assessment:** To determine if the turquoise is natural, treated, or composite, and to check for any hidden damage or repairs. * **Hallmark Search:** A thorough search for obscured or tiny hallmarks under magnification. * **Weight & Dimensions:** Precise measurements and weight would aid in assessing material quantity. Without these, the appraisal is based on typical characteristics of similar vintage items.
Appraisal Value
$100-200