Enamelled Sterling Silver Squircle Napkin Ring with Beaded Borders
Napkin Ring · Unknown Contemporary or Mid-Century Silversmith
Pattern: Modern Enamel Beaded Border Collection
Type
Napkin Ring
Maker
Unknown Contemporary or Mid-Century Silversmith
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with applied vitreous enamel
Dimensions
Standard individual napkin ring size, approximately 4.5 cm to 5 cm wide with a moderate weight of 20 to 35 grams
Description
An elegant and striking napkin ring crafted from sterling silver featuring a distinct rounded-square shape, commonly referred to as a squircle. The central band is vividly enameled in a rich, glossy dark blue hue, providing a dramatic contrast against the gleaming silver. Delicate beaded borders frame both the top and bottom edges, adding a touch of classic texture and refinement to an otherwise modern geometric silhouette.
Key Features
Unique squircle geometry, vibrant dark blue enamel inlay, and contrasting polished beaded borders
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with applied vitreous enamel
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish featuring a deep blue vitreous enamel band around the body, bordered by raised raised beaded or milgrained edges in a rounded square 'squircle' form
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in current imagery; typically stamped with standard .925 or 'Sterling' and potential maker marks on the interior rim
Construction Details
Formed from a bent sheet of silver with a soldered seam, finished with precision applied enamel and cast or stamped beaded borders
Functional Features
Designed to hold a single folded cloth dinner napkin at a formal or casual place setting
Handle & Grip Details
None applicable as this is a hollow napkin ring form
Craftsmanship Details
Combines metal forming, precise enamel firing, and detailed border texturing, demonstrating a high degree of decorative attention for a small functional piece
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of form, clean application of vitreous enamel, and crisp beadwork suggest quality manufacturing; proper metal testing recommended for absolute verification
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Europe, the United States, or Asia utilizing traditional silversmithing combined with modern enameling techniques
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary Period (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to contemporary, circa 1970s-2000s
Cultural Significance
Represents the evolution of table settings from strictly utilitarian silver to colorful, art-forward tablescapes that mix precious metals with vibrant color
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good to excellent overall condition with clean enamel surfaces, minor age-appropriate tarnish to the high-relief silver beads, and no visible structural damage
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $50 and $150 USD depending on the specific maker, hallmark presence, and exact weight
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, avoiding harsh abrasive dips that could damage the enamel inlay; store in an anti-tarnish cloth bag
Similar Pieces
Various enameled sterling napkin rings by makers such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co., or Scandinavian modern designers
Interesting Facts
Napkin rings became popular in late 18th-century France as a way for households to identify family members' napkins between weekly washings