18K Yellow Gold Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. Loving Heart Ring
Ring (Designer Fashion/Promise Ring) · Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver to achieve a rich, warm tone.
Purity: 18K/750 (75% pure gold, 25% alloy). Note: The visible surface wear and slight discoloration in the image suggest the item should be tested for plating (vermeil or gold-filled) versus solid gold construction.
Type
Ring (Designer Fashion/Promise Ring)
Purity
18K/750 (75% pure gold, 25% alloy). Note: The visible surface wear and slight discoloration in the image suggest the item should be tested for plating (vermeil or gold-filled) versus solid gold construction.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver to achieve a rich, warm tone.
Weight
Estimated between 3.5 to 5.0 grams depending on ring size and solid vs hollow construction.
Description
An iconic Paloma Picasso 'Loving Heart' ring featuring her signature stylized heart motif. The design incorporates a fluid, sculptural heart that gracefully intersects the rounded gold band, representing universal love and contemporary elegance.
Key Features
Authentic Paloma Picasso script signature engraving; iconic off-center stylized heart design; Tiffany & Co. heritage branding.
Color & Finish
Polished yellow gold with a medium-rich amber hue; surface shows significant micro-scratching (patina) and areas of potential oxidation or wear near the heart focal point.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved script on the interior shank includes (C) Paloma Picasso and Tiffany & Co. (hidden by perspective) and likely a 750 or 18K purity mark.
Dimensions Estimate
Band width approximately 2mm to 2.5mm; Heart motif approximately 5mm-7mm. Estimated US Ring Size 5-7.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a solid metal design focusing on geometric and sculptural gold work.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable for a continuous band ring.
Chain & Links
D-shape or comfort-fit rounded band profile; seamless construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Casting method (lost-wax) with hand-finished polishing and laser-engraved or stamped hallmarks on the inner circumference.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic fluid script engraving; specific proportions of the heart motif. Red flag: Color variation in deep recesses may indicate plating wear; professional XRF testing recommended to confirm solid gold.
Origin & Maker
United States/Italy; Tiffany & Co., designed by Paloma Picasso.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Present); based on Paloma Picasso's collaboration with Tiffany which began in 1980.
Age Estimate
Likely circa 1990s-2010s based on the script engraving style and the heavy wear on the surface.
Cultural Significance
Represents a transition in the late 20th century toward 'designer' branded gold jewelry that combined high-art pedigree with wearable luxury.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. The ring shows significant surface wear, dings, and surface scratches. There is visible dark residue or wear in the crevices of the heart motif. Surface needs professional buffing.
Value Estimate
Melt value approx. $180-$250 (as of gold $2k+); Secondary market resale $400-$650 depending on authenticity confirmation and refurbishment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; professional polishing every 2-3 years to restore luster; avoid harsh contact with hard surfaces to prevent dings in the soft 18K gold.
Similar Items
Paloma Picasso Graffiti Heart Ring, David Yurman Heart Rings, Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Open Heart Ring.
Interesting Facts
Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo Picasso, is famous for using the heart symbol in various interpretations, with the 'Loving Heart' being her most globally recognized jewelry design.