14K Yellow Gold Vintage Cabochon Lapis Lazuli Cocktail Ring
Ring (Cocktail) · Yellow Gold with a warm tone, likely alloyed with copper and silver.
Purity: 14K/585, indicating 58.3% to 58.5% pure gold content alloyed with other metals for durability.
Type
Ring (Cocktail)
Purity
14K/585, indicating 58.3% to 58.5% pure gold content alloyed with other metals for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a warm tone, likely alloyed with copper and silver.
Weight
Estimated between 6 to 9 grams based on the visible thickness and stone size, appearing solid.
Description
An eye-catching vintage cocktail ring featuring a striking deep blue oval cabochon gemstone cradled by expressive, organic yellow gold prongs. The split shoulders flow gracefully into a solid, highly polished 14K yellow gold band, exemplifying the bold and artistic jewelry design trends of the mid-to-late 20th century.
Key Features
Prominent organic-style multi-prong setting, split-shank shoulders, and a large saturated blue cabochon centerpiece.
Color & Finish
Rich warm yellow gold with a high-polish finish on the smooth shank and textured relief work near the prongs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible maker or designer mark reading 'ALCLD' (or similar stylized lettering) stamped inside the shank.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard ring size approximately US 6 to 7, with a raised cabochon setting measuring roughly 12mm to 15mm in length.
Gemstones & Inlays
Large oval cabochon-cut deep blue gemstone, visually consistent with natural lapis lazuli or a synthetic dyed chalcedony, held securely in an organic-style multi-prong setting.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; standard closed loop ring shank.
Chain & Links
Solid curved band with split-shank shoulders branching out dynamically to support the large central stone.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast construction with hand-finished details, featuring stylized split shoulders and custom-bent prongs designed to securely hug the organic contours of the cabochon stone.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a clear interior maker stamp, appropriate color and weight proportions for 14K gold, and casting texture typical of mid-century jewelry production.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or European commercial jewelry production, bearing an obscured or maker-specific stamped hallmark.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to 1970s Bold Gold era, characterized by organic styling and prominent cabochon centerpieces.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1980s based on the organic styling and casting techniques typical of that period.
Cultural Significance
Representing personal expression and style over traditional minimalism, cocktail rings have long served as statement pieces reflecting the wearer's bold personality and fashion independence.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface micro-scratches on the gold shank consistent with gentle wear, with the stone securely held in its original setting.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily on its aesthetic and collectible vintage merit, combining the melt value of the 14K gold weight with a collector premium for its distinct mid-century design.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is a softer porous material like lapis lazuli, and store separately to prevent scratching.
Similar Items
Other mid-century cocktail rings featuring turquoise, jade, or lapis lazuli cabochons set in textured yellow gold.
Interesting Facts
Cocktail rings rose to prominence during the US Prohibition era in the 1920s, worn at illicit parties to symbolize rebellion and luxury, and experienced a major resurgence in bold, organic designs during the 1960s and 70s.