18K Two-Tone Gold Sculptural Wave Cocktail Ring with Diamond Accents
Cocktail Ring / Statement Ring · Two-Tone; primarily Yellow Gold with White Gold or Rhodium-plated accents on the diamond-set leaf motifs.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, likely marked with '750' or '18K' on the inner shank.
Type
Cocktail Ring / Statement Ring
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, likely marked with '750' or '18K' on the inner shank.
Gold Type
Two-Tone; primarily Yellow Gold with White Gold or Rhodium-plated accents on the diamond-set leaf motifs.
Weight
Estimated 8 to 12 grams; the wide, multi-layered design suggests a solid, substantial weight typical of high-quality vintage cocktail rings.
Description
A sophisticated 18K gold cocktail ring featuring a series of undulating, high-polished yellow gold waves. Interspersed among the gold folds are three grain-set diamond clusters housed in white gold marquise frames, providing a shimmering contrast. The ring offers a bold silhouette that wraps elegantly over the finger.
Key Features
Sculptural tiered design, two-tone contrast, marquise-shaped illusion settings for the diamonds, and a comfort-fit tapered shank.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich yellow gold with a high-polish finish on the wave layers; white gold finish on the marquise-shaped settings with micro-texture for added brilliance.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect an '18K' or '750' stamp inside the shank. May contain a maker's mark or country of origin (likely Italy or France given the style).
Dimensions Estimate
Width at top: 15-18mm; Shank width: 4-6mm; Ring size: approximately 6.5-7.5 based on finger proportions shown.
Gemstones & Inlays
Small melee diamonds, likely 0.10 - 0.15 total carat weight. Round brilliant cuts set into marquise-shaped illusion plates.
Clasp & Closure
N/A (Continuous band ring)
Chain & Links
D-shape tapered band; the top features overlapping 'leaf' or 'wave' style layers typical of late mid-century Italian design.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting method with hand-finishing. Diamond settings are manually micro-beaded into the white gold plates to maximize light reflection.
Authentication Indicators
The saturation of the yellow gold is consistent with 18K purity. The sharpness of the casting and secure stone settings indicate high-end jewelry production versus costume/base metal.
Origin & Maker
Likely of European (Italian) or high-end North American commercial origin. The fluid casting suggests professional boutique manufacturing.
Era & Period
Modernist / Retro Influence (circa 1980s - 1990s); characterized by bold, sculptural gold work and textured two-tone motifs.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1985 and 1995 based on the 'nugget' and 'wave' hybrid styling and setting techniques.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Power Gold' trend of the late 20th century, where jewelry was used as a bold statement of professional success and status.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; minor surface scratches consistent with light wear. No visible thinning of the band or missing stones.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail $1,500 - $2,200; Melt value approximately $450 - $650 depending on exact weight and daily spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Professional rhodium replating may be needed on the white sections every few years to maintain brightness.
Similar Items
Alternative to Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger styles or Cartier's 'Nouvelle Vague' collection, though this is a more traditional commercial design.
Interesting Facts
Cocktail rings rose to popularity in the 1920s as a symbol of female independence and were often worn on the right hand during social events to showcase personal style.