Bohemian Style Sterling Silver Garnet Cabochon Ring
Jewelry (Ring) · Unidentified mass-market artisan manufacturer; typically produced in workshops in India, Thailand, or Indonesia (Bali) for global export and boutique resale.
Pattern: Balinese/Indonesian Filigree and Granulation; not part of a specific named collection but a common regional style.
Type
Jewelry (Ring)
Maker
Unidentified mass-market artisan manufacturer; typically produced in workshops in India, Thailand, or Indonesia (Bali) for global export and boutique resale.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a natural or synthetic Garnet (or glass/resin) cabochon. Contains copper as a hardening agent.
Dimensions
Estimated Band Width: 3-8mm; Weight: 4-7 grams. Fits standard US ring sizes 6-9 based on proportions.
Description
This sterling silver cocktail ring features a deep burgundy-red cabochon, reminiscent of a Bohemian garnet. The stone is secured in a thick bezel, framed by a delicate border of silver beads. The shoulders are adorned with swirling scrollwork and filigree-style patterns, finished with heavy oxidation to provide a vintage, storied look that appeals to fans of 'boho' and artisan jewelry.
Key Features
Oxidized recessed details for high contrast, bead-and-scroll shoulder architecture, and a center-set oval cabochon.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a natural or synthetic Garnet (or glass/resin) cabochon. Contains copper as a hardening agent.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish to highlight recessed areas; features granulation (beading) around the bezel and scrolled filigree (wirework) motifs on the shoulders. Art Nouveau/Ethno-chic style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, but usually found on the inner band as a small '925' or 'STERLING' stamp, occasionally accompanied by a workshop code.
Construction Details
Cast using the lost-wax process, followed by oxidation and light hand-polishing. The filigree and granulation appear to be cast-in-place rather than hand-applied wirework.
Functional Features
Fixed-size band with a bezel setting designed to protect the cabochon edges; comfortable tapered shank.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Ring shank is solid silver with a smooth interior for finger comfort).
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade casting. Symmetry is decent, but the lack of individual wire separation indicates a machine-aided or mold-based production rather than master-level hand-fabrication.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp is the primary indicator to look for. The wear on the high points of the silver is consistent with soft precious metal rather than harder base-metal alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Southeast Asia (Bali or Thailand) or India, known for high-volume silver jewelry production with traditional aesthetics.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (late 20th to 21st century) inspired by traditional Balinese and Victorian Revival design elements.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-present. The design and price tag suggest a contemporary retail environment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the globalization of traditional Balinese silver-working techniques, which were adapted into mass-market fashion to satisfy the 'Global Traveler' aesthetic.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. Shows minor surface scuffing on the lower shank. The oxidation is even. Grade: Good (Standard for used retail).
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD. The 14.99 price tag shown suggests a thrift or second-hand market value well below standard boutique retail.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Avoid silver dips as they will remove the intentional black oxidation in the crevices. Keep away from chlorine and household chemicals.
Similar Pieces
Silpada or Novica rings; though similar in style, authentic hand-wrought Balinese pieces would feature sharper, individual solder points for each silver bead.
Interesting Facts
Garnet is the birthstone for January and has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, popularized specifically in 'Bohemian' styles during the late 19th century.