Southwestern Style Lozenge-Shaped Sterling Silver Ring with Inlay/Stone
Jewelry - Finger Ring · Unidentified artisan silversmith, likely of Southwestern or Taxco Mexican origin. The piece lacks a visible designer brand but follows regional folk art traditions common in mid-to-late 20th-century silver production.
Pattern: Southwestern Revival / Neo-Ethnic. This is a non-cataloged artisan piece following traditional geometric motifs of the American Southwest and Northern Mexico.
Type
Jewelry - Finger Ring
Maker
Unidentified artisan silversmith, likely of Southwestern or Taxco Mexican origin. The piece lacks a visible designer brand but follows regional folk art traditions common in mid-to-late 20th-century silver production.
Material
Sterling silver (.925) alloy with a round cabochon inset (appears to be chalcedony, mother of pearl, or a light green semi-precious stone). The silver composition is visible through the darkened oxidation that occurs on authentic silver alloys.
Dimensions
Estimated face size: 2.5cm x 1.8cm. Ring size: approx. US 7-8 based on hand proportions. Estimated weight: 6-10 grams.
Description
This sterling silver ring features a bold lozenge-shaped face with a distinctively architectural aesthetic. The central cabochon stone is framed by concentric borders of rope-twist wire and delicate silver beads, creating a 'shadowbox' effect typical of Southwestern silvercraft. The contrast between the bright highlights of the silver and the deep oxidation in the recesses gives the piece a rugged, antique appearance.
Key Features
Diamond-shaped (lozenge) plaque, milgrain beaded edging, central bezel-set stone, and heavy patina in recessed areas.
Material & Composition
Sterling silver (.925) alloy with a round cabochon inset (appears to be chalcedony, mother of pearl, or a light green semi-precious stone). The silver composition is visible through the darkened oxidation that occurs on authentic silver alloys.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish. Features a lozenge-shaped (rhomboid) face with a beaded border (milgrain-style), rope-twist wire decoration, and a central circular bezel setting for the stone. The darker recessed areas are chemically oxidized to create contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the photograph; likely stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the inner shank. Mexican versions may also include an eagle mark or city code (e.g., TAXCO).
Construction Details
Multi-part construction including a cast or cut-sheet silver face, an applied beaded border, and a hand-soldered shank (band). The stone is secured via a bezel wrap setting.
Functional Features
Closed-back setting behind the central stone; fixed shank (non-adjustable). Decorative lozenge face serves as a cocktail-style statement piece.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple split-shoulder or tapered solid silver band soldered to the center-back of the decorative plaque.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece exhibits good artisan quality. The symmetry of the beads and the precision of the bezel wrap suggest a skilled workshop environment rather than mass-machine manufacture.
Authentication Indicators
The tarnish color (black/dark grey) is consistent with silver sulfide, confirming a high silver content. Construction shows typical solder points at the shank-to-plaque join.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Southwestern United States (Arizona/New Mexico) or Taxco, Mexico. These regions are the primary hubs for hand-finished geometric silver jewelry of this style.
Era & Period
Modern / Southwestern Revival (c. 1970s - 1990s). The design draws from historic Navajo and Zuni traditions but the construction suggests later commercial tourist-trade or boutique production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1995. The wear patterns on the band and the specific use of heavy oxidation as a design element are characteristic of late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Santa Fe Style' that became a global fashion trend in the late 20th century, blending Indigenous American design with European silversmithing techniques.
Condition Notes
Very Good Condition. Light surface scratches (scuffs) on the outer band indicating moderate wear. Some accumulated tarnish/sulfide deposits. The stone appears secure in its setting with no visible cracks.
Value Estimate
$35.00 - $75.00 USD. Retail value depends on the identification of the stone and any hidden artisan hallmarks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Do not use chemical dips, as they will remove the intentional oxidation (black areas) that provides the design's depth. Avoid getting the stone wet if it is porous (like turquoise or mop).
Similar Pieces
Bell Trading Post jewelry (machine-stamped), Taxco '925' jewelry (mass-produced versions), or authentic Navajo 'Old Pawn' (usually heavier and more primitive).
Interesting Facts
The 'Beaded' or 'Raindrop' border seen here is one of the oldest motifs in Southwestern silversmithing, originally created by melting small scraps of silver into spheres.