18K Yellow Gold Scarab Signet Ring
Signet Ring / Intaglio Ring · Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver ratio based on the warm, rosy-yellow hue present).
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, often alloyed with copper and silver for durability and color richness.
Type
Signet Ring / Intaglio Ring
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, often alloyed with copper and silver for durability and color richness.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver ratio based on the warm, rosy-yellow hue present).
Weight
Estimated 8 to 12 grams. The band appears thick and substantial indicating a solid construction rather than hollow.
Description
A heavy, masculine 18K gold signet style ring featuring an exquisitely carved scarab. The gold has a rich, high-karat glow that contrasts beautifully with the dark, translucent stone. The shoulders are wide and bold, tapering elegantly to a comfortable shank.
Key Features
Hand-carved scarab motif, high-karat 18K solid gold construction, and a vintage 'egyptian revival' aesthetic that is currently highly collectible.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow with a satin-matte patina. The surface shows a naturally aged luster rather than a contemporary high-polish finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible '18K' stamp on the interior shank. No visible maker's marks or assay marks are clear in this view, suggesting a US or non-European origin.
Dimensions Estimate
Ring size approximately US 9-10. Top width roughly 14-16mm, tapering to a 4mm bottom shank.
Gemstones & Inlays
Hand-carved Tiger’s Eye or Smoky Quartz scarab beetle cabochon, set in a bezel or pressure-mount flush with the shoulders.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (closed band ring).
Chain & Links
Standard tapered shank with rounded 'D-shape' profile interior for comfort.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast body with hand-finished bezel setting. The carving on the stone shows hand-tooling rather than laser-cutting, typical of mid-century quality pieces.
Authentication Indicators
The '18K' stamp color matches the metal alloy perfectly; the wear on the edges shows solid metal rather than plating (no base metal bleed-through).
Origin & Maker
Likely American or Italian manufacture; the '18K' stamp without further assay marks is common in high-end American boutique jewelry of the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern with Egyptian Revival influences. Stylistically fits the mid-20th century (1950s-1970s).
Age Estimate
Likely circa 1960-1980 based on the wear pattern, stamp font, and the specific stylization of the scarab setting.
Cultural Significance
Signet rings historically denoted status and were used to seal documents; scarab variants specifically represent life, resurrection, and the sun in Egyptian mythology.
Condition Notes
Good antique/vintage condition. Surface shows micro-scratching (swirls) and minor dings consistent with regular wear over several decades. Stamp is crisp.
Value Estimate
Melt value approximately $450-$600 USD; Retail/Collector value approximately $950-$1,400 USD depending on the rarity of the stone carving and buyer demand.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is Tiger's Eye as it can be porous. Professional buffing can restore high polish.
Similar Items
14K Gold Scarab Bracelets (often multi-colored stones), 18K Modernist Signet Rings (usually flat gold tops), or Victorian Intaglio rings.
Interesting Facts
Scarabs were used in Ancient Egypt as amulets and seals. This revival period in the 20th century brought these symbols back as popular tokens of protection and rebirth.