Brushed Yellow Gold Abstract Tiered Ring with Turquoise Inlay
Ring (Sculptural/Artisan Statement Ring) · Yellow Gold with significant patination; likely alloyed with copper and silver.
Purity: Likely 14K (58.5%) or 18K (75%) solid gold. The rich saturation and weightiness suggest a high-purity alloy often used in studio jewelry.
Type
Ring (Sculptural/Artisan Statement Ring)
Purity
Likely 14K (58.5%) or 18K (75%) solid gold. The rich saturation and weightiness suggest a high-purity alloy often used in studio jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with significant patination; likely alloyed with copper and silver.
Weight
Estimated 25 to 35 grams. This is a substantial, heavyweight architectural piece featuring solid metal components.
Description
An avant-garde, architectural masterpiece in gold. This tiered statement ring features three concentric gold discs rising toward a prominent turquoise crown, resembling a miniature sculpture for the hand.
Key Features
Modular tiered design, industrial screw-mount construction, and high-contrast vivid blue turquoise against patinated gold.
Color & Finish
Deep, burnished yellow gold with a heavy circular-brushed/satin finish and significant dark oxidation/patina in the crevices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in current view; typically located on the interior of the lowest base ring or the bottom of the shank.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 40-50mm; Base width: 25-30mm; Ring size: Large (approx US 9-11) due to structural scale.
Gemstones & Inlays
Polished blue turquoise stone with black matrix, custom-cut into a wedge/trapezoidal column and bezel-set at the peak.
Clasp & Closure
Internal screw-thread assembly; the tiers appear to be threaded onto a central gold post for modular construction.
Chain & Links
N/A (Structural ring band is a heavy, flat-profile base tier designed for finger placement).
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-lathed or precision-machined gold tiers; artisan-set bezel for the turquoise; high-quality internal threading for structural stability.
Authentication Indicators
Surface patination is characteristic of high-karat gold; threading quality indicates precision lathe work rather than cast imitation metal.
Origin & Maker
Likely a bespoke artisanal piece or an independent high-end studio; signature characteristics suggest custom craft rather than mass-market.
Era & Period
Modernist/Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Present). Influenced by Brutalist and Architectural design movements.
Age Estimate
Likely 1990s to contemporary. The use of industrial-style threading and brushed finishes is common in modern studio jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Art as Jewelry' movement, where the ergonomic function of a ring is secondary to its visual impact and status as a wearable object of art.
Condition Notes
Very Good; displays intentional surface texture and natural oxidation. Metal shows micro-scratches consistent with wear on the base tier.
Value Estimate
Retail valuation $3,500 - $5,500 based on gold weight, artist labor, and specialty stone cutting. Melt value approx $1,400-$1,800.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaning due to the turquoise; clean with a soft dry cloth. Do not use chemical dips which will strip the intentional patina.
Similar Items
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Olive Leaf (in texture), Bulgari B.zero1 (in architectural scale), or Brutalist 1970s jewelry.
Interesting Facts
The tiered design mimics the 'Stupa' or 'Ziggurat' architectural forms found in ancient sacred structures, representing a climb toward enlightenment.