Artisan Rennie Mackintosh-Inspired Sterling Silver Spiral Bud Ring
Jewelry (Ring) · Unknown Contemporary Artisan. The design heavily references the Glasgow School and 'Charles Rennie Mackintosh' style, often produced by boutique silversmiths in the UK and North America.
Pattern: Glasgow School / Mackintosh Rose Spiral Variation. This specific arrangement of asymmetric spirals is a 20th-century interpretation of early 20th-century Modernist motifs.
Type
Jewelry (Ring)
Maker
Unknown Contemporary Artisan. The design heavily references the Glasgow School and 'Charles Rennie Mackintosh' style, often produced by boutique silversmiths in the UK and North America.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) alloy. This is indicated by the greyish-white luster and the nature of the oxidation in the recessed areas.
Dimensions
Estimated size 7 (as per tag). Width at face approximately 12mm-15mm tapering to 4mm at back. Estimated weight: 6 to 9 grams (approx. 0.2 to 0.3 troy ounces).
Description
This sterling silver ring features a cluster of stylized spirals in varying sizes, reminiscent of the iconic Mackintosh Rose. The face of the ring is slightly domed, creating a bold topographical look. The contrast between the high-polish relief and the darkened, oxidized background gives the piece a tiered, antique appearance that celebrates Celtic and Modernist design roots.
Key Features
Asymmetric spiral cluster, planished shank texture, high-contrast oxidation, and a hand-crafted look despite being a cast item.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) alloy. This is indicated by the greyish-white luster and the nature of the oxidation in the recessed areas.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and Hammered Finish. The surface features deep oxidation to highlight the spiral relief, while the band displays a planished (hammered) texture consistent with the Arts & Crafts revival aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, but typically located on the inner shank. Likely contains a '925' or 'Sterling' stamp; if of British origin, it may carry a leopard's head (London) or anchor (Birmingham) assay mark.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting (investment casting). The organic, overlapping nature of the spirals suggests it was carved in wax first. The shank appears to be integrated into the cast rather than soldered separately.
Functional Features
Tapered shank for comfort; fixed-size band. No mechanical features.
Handle & Grip Details
Continuous metal shank; ergonomic tapering toward the underside of the finger.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished casting. The execution of the relief is clean with no visible porosity. The transition from the decorated face to the hammered shank shows thoughtful design integration.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the tarnish (silver sulfide) is consistent with genuine sterling. The weight and 'feel' of the casting edges are indicative of quality silver alloy rather than base metal pot-metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a commercial artisan workshop in the United Kingdom or United States, following the tradition of independent studio jewelry.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th to early 21st century) with Arts & Crafts / Art Nouveau stylistic indicators.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990–2010. The condition of the tag and the specific style of casting are consistent with late 20th-century artisan boutique production.
Cultural Significance
A representation of the enduring legacy of the Arts and Crafts movement's rejection of mass-produced, machine-like perfection in favor of organic, artist-led design.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface scratches on the band consistent with light wear; oxidation remains intact in the recesses providing excellent definition. No visible cracks or thinning of the shank.
Value Estimate
$45.00 - $75.00 for resale/retail. The tag in the image showing $21.99 suggests a secondary market or thrift price, which represents a significant bargain below silver-weight and artisan value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Avoid chemical 'dips' as they will remove the intentional oxidation that provides the design's depth. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Similar Pieces
Ortak Jewelry 'Mackintosh' range, Carrick Jewellery pieces, or Heathergold designs. Competitors often use more geometric lines compared to this piece's fluid, hand-carved spiral feel.
Interesting Facts
The spiral is one of the oldest decorative motifs in human history, specifically prominent in Celtic 'La Tène' art, which Rennie Mackintosh later modernized to create the 'Glasgow Style' that inspired this ring.