Modernist Vermeil Sterling Silver Ring with Blue Cabochon and Accents
Jewelry - Cocktail Ring · Unknown workshop; the design suggests a commercial boutique manufacturer, possibly Southeast Asian (Thai) or Southwestern American based on the setting style and vermeil finishing.
Pattern: Non-specific commercial modern asymmetric architectural design.
Type
Jewelry - Cocktail Ring
Maker
Unknown workshop; the design suggests a commercial boutique manufacturer, possibly Southeast Asian (Thai) or Southwestern American based on the setting style and vermeil finishing.
Material
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver .925). The base is likely silver with a heavy gold electroplate. The center stone appears to be a blue dyed chalcedony or synthetic glass cabochon, with colorless rhinestone or cubic zirconia accents.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 2.5cm, width of 2cm. Estimated weight 8-12 grams including the stone.
Description
An eye-catching modernist cocktail ring featuring a large, vibrant blue oval cabochon. The ring is crafted from silver with a thick gold wash, creating a luxury aesthetic at a more accessible price point. Its asymmetric shoulder features geometric cutouts and a row of pavé-set clear stones, giving it a dynamic, sculptural appearance.
Key Features
Asymmetric openwork shoulders, oversized blue cabochon, vibrant vermeil gold finish, and 'ladder' structural motifs.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver .925). The base is likely silver with a heavy gold electroplate. The center stone appears to be a blue dyed chalcedony or synthetic glass cabochon, with colorless rhinestone or cubic zirconia accents.
Finish & Decoration
Polished gold finish over a silver base. Features a 'stepped' or 'ladder' architectural openwork design on the shoulders and a heavy four-prong setting for the main stone.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; likely located on the inner band. Expected marks: '925', 'Sterling', or a maker's hallmark 'THAI' if imported.
Construction Details
Lost-wax investment casting. The openwork structure and gemstone seats are integrated into the mold, with hand-setting for the stones after casting and plating.
Functional Features
Tapered band for comfort, raised gallery to allow light through the stone, and protective prongs.
Handle & Grip Details
The shank (band) provides the grip; it appears to be a standard solid band construction that has been cast as one piece with the head.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast production with manual stone setting. The symmetry of the prongs and the clarity of the cutout channels indicate a professional-grade steel mold was used.
Authentication Indicators
The 'brassy' tone of the wear points suggests a gold-plated base. Construction lines are consistent with modern mass-production casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a commercial jewelry hub such as Thailand, Italy, or the USA (Providence/Southwest) using industrial casting methods.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century Modernist/Contemporary (c. 1980-2000). The bold, chunky aesthetic and 'gold-look' silver were popular in these decades.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s. The architectural lines and use of vermeil on an oversized cocktail form are indicative of late 20th-century fashion jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the late 20th century, where 'bold and gold' aesthetic was attainable through high-quality silver substitutes.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible wear to the gold plating on the edges and prongs revealing the silver beneath. The stone shows some surface grime/residue near the setting. Rhinestones appear intact.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD depending on hallmark presence and stone authenticity.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical 'dips' which can strip gold plating. Clean only with a very soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Do not use abrasive silver polishes.
Similar Pieces
1980s Monet or Kenneth Jay Lane costume pieces (which are usually non-precious base metal) or contemporary sterling designers like Judith Ripka.
Interesting Facts
Vermeil must have a minimum gold thickness (2.5 microns) to be legally labeled as such in the US, providing a more durable lifespan than standard 'gold-tone' jewelry.