Vintage-Style Gold-Tone Cameo Cocktail Ring with Rhinestone Accents
Ring (Cocktail/Statement) · Yellow Gold plating over a base alloy, likely brass or pot metal.
Purity: Non-solid; gold-tone plating over base metal. Does not contain significant gold karatage (0%).
Type
Ring (Cocktail/Statement)
Purity
Non-solid; gold-tone plating over base metal. Does not contain significant gold karatage (0%).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base alloy, likely brass or pot metal.
Weight
10-15 grams total weight inclusive of the center inlay.
Description
A bold, ornate cocktail ring featuring a classic neoclassical cameo silhouette set in a textured gold-tone frame. The profile is framed by a halo of glittering champagne-colored stones, evoking a sense of heritage and old-world glamour. It serves as a statement piece designed to mimic high-end antique jewelry.
Key Features
Left-facing female profile; 'Blackened' or antiqued gold-tone finish; foil-backed rhinestone borders; molded relief center.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold color with an antiqued patina. The finish shows heavy oxidation, darkening in the crevices, and surface wear where the plating has thinned.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; typical for costume jewelry of this era. May have a maker's mark on the inner band not shown.
Dimensions Estimate
Oversized statement ring; face measures approximately 25mm x 20mm; ring size appears to be standard US 7-8.
Gemstones & Inlays
Center features a molded resin or plastic faux-cameo (left-facing woman). Accented by foil-backed glass rhinestones in a brownish-champagne hue.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Fixed band ring).
Chain & Links
Standard wide tapered band with an oval bezel-style head.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast construction with prong-set rhinestones and a glued-in center cabochon. Visible mold lines suggest mass production rather than hand-forging.
Authentication Indicators
The 'brassy' color, lack of karat stamps, and the use of molded plastic instead of carved shell (conch) indicate this is costume jewelry rather than high-jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced costume jewelry, possibly from a brand like Sarah Coventry, Avon, or an unsigned boutique maker.
Era & Period
Modern Vintage / 1960s-1970s Revival. Mimics Victorian (1837-1901) mourning or portrait jewelry styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s - 1980s based on the molded plastic inlay and foil-backed stones.
Cultural Significance
Cameos reached their peak popularity under Queen Victoria, who used them to commemorate loved ones or display classical artistic tastes.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant wear to the gold plating on the top edge (showing base metal); patina suggests age or moisture exposure; inlay appears secure but slightly discolored.
Value Estimate
Resale value between $15 - $35. Value is purely decorative/collectible; it has negligible precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid water, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaners. Gently wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use gold polishing compounds as they will strip the thin plating.
Similar Items
Authentic Victorian 14K Gold Shell Cameo Rings; 1950s Bakelite Rings; Marcasite Cameo Jewelry.
Interesting Facts
Real cameos are usually carved from sardonyx or carnelian shell; molded plastic 'cameos' became popular in the mid-20th century to make the aesthetic accessible to the middle class.