Ruby Collection Cold-Cast Silver-Toned Elephant Family Figurine on Wood Plinth
Decorative Object (Statue/Figurine) · Ruby Collection. This is a contemporary giftware brand specializing in decorative home accents, often found in retail gift shops and department stores. They are not high-jewelry silversmiths like Tiffany or Jensen.
Pattern: African Elephant Family Group. Part of a wildlife-themed series produced in the late 20th to early 21st century. It is likely discontinued from primary retail production.
Type
Decorative Object (Statue/Figurine)
Maker
Ruby Collection. This is a contemporary giftware brand specializing in decorative home accents, often found in retail gift shops and department stores. They are not high-jewelry silversmiths like Tiffany or Jensen.
Material
Cold-Cast Resin or Composite. This item is not solid silver or traditionally silver-plated. It is made of a resin polymer mixed with metallic pigments or finished with a metallic lacquer. It features gold-painted accents on the toenails.
Dimensions
Estimated 8 inches height, 10 inches width. Weight is likely substantial due to the dense resin core but significantly lighter than a solid silver cast of this size would be (approx. 2-3 lbs).
Description
A dynamic wildlife sculpture depicting a large matriarchal elephant flanked by two energetic calves. The piece captures the textured 'skin' of the elephants through a cast resin process, finished in a muted metallic dark silver with contrasting gold highlights. It serves as an accessible decorative piece symbolizing family and strength.
Key Features
Textured resin hide, gold-painted toenails and tusks, oval dark-wood base, and the signature Ruby Collection gold-toned label.
Material & Composition
Cold-Cast Resin or Composite. This item is not solid silver or traditionally silver-plated. It is made of a resin polymer mixed with metallic pigments or finished with a metallic lacquer. It features gold-painted accents on the toenails.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized Bronzed-Silver Finish. The surface is textured to mimic elephant hide with a dark chemical patination to highlight the wrinkles. Accents of gold paint are applied to the tusks and feet. The style is Contemporary Realism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small brass-toned foil or plastic plaque on the base reading 'Ruby Collection'. There is no fineness mark (such as 925 or Sterling) because the object is not made of precious metal.
Construction Details
Molded and Cast. This is a mass-produced item created by pouring resin into a silicone or rubber mold taken from a clay original. It is not hand-wrought or smith-made.
Functional Features
Static decorative object. The oval wooden base is finished with a dark stain and provides stability for the heavy resin figures.
Handle & Grip Details
None. The item is designed for stationary display on a shelf or mantel.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The molding shows high detail from the original master sculpture (wrinkles, eyes), but the finishing is batch-painted, and the durability of the leaf/paint is low as evidenced by the surface chips.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Ruby Collection' tag is a hallmark of a commercial giftware line. The chipping pattern (showing white or gray composite under the finish) and the absence of sterling marks like '925' or a lion passant confirm this is a decorative resin piece, not silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in China or Southeast Asia for a global giftware distributor. This is typical for Ruby Collection branded items found in western retail markets.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th Century, approx. 1990-2010). It follows the trend of 'safari' themed home decor popular during this period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2005. The branding style, materials, and retail presence of Ruby Collection suggest this mid-range mass-market era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of home decor where 'look-alike' metallic finishes allowed middle-market consumers to purchase items that mimicked the look of expensive bronze or silver gallery pieces.
Condition Notes
Good / Fair. There is visible wear/chipping on the ear of the large elephant and the trunk of the calf, revealing the lighter resin core underneath. This confirms it is not solid metal.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal and sentimental value rather than metal content or artisan pedigree. In its current chipped condition, it is at the lower end of the range.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver polish or dips, as chemicals will strip the lacquer finish. Dust with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid direct sunlight which can cause the resin to become brittle or the gold paint to fade.
Similar Pieces
Veronese Design cold-cast bronze elephants, Heredities (UK) silver-toned animal figures. These are typically higher quality than Ruby Collection but share the resin-base construction.
Interesting Facts
The elephant family is a popular motif in Feng Shui and interior design, symbolizing protection, good luck, and familial bonds. The Ruby Collection was a staple in 1990s gift boutiques.