10K Tri-Color Black Hills Gold Grape Leaf Ring
Ring, specifically a Black Hills Gold style cocktail or fashion ring · Tri-color alloy: 10K Yellow Gold (base), 12K Rose Gold (pink leaves containing copper), and 12K Green Gold (green leaves containing silver).
Purity: Likely 10K (41.7% gold), a standard for this regional style. Some premium versions are 12K (50% gold) for the leaves and 10K for the shank.
Type
Ring, specifically a Black Hills Gold style cocktail or fashion ring
Purity
Likely 10K (41.7% gold), a standard for this regional style. Some premium versions are 12K (50% gold) for the leaves and 10K for the shank.
Gold Type
Tri-color alloy: 10K Yellow Gold (base), 12K Rose Gold (pink leaves containing copper), and 12K Green Gold (green leaves containing silver).
Weight
Estimated between 1.5 to 2.5 grams based on the narrow split-shank design and petite grape cluster motif.
Description
An iconic American legacy piece, this Black Hills Gold ring features the signature grape leaf and cluster motif in a triple-tone gold palette. The delicate leaves are hand-textured to create a frosted appearance that contrasts sharply with the polished yellow gold frame.
Key Features
Tri-color gold leaves (rose and green), grape cluster beads, and the distinctive textured 'frosting' finish on the foliage which is the hallmark of regional South Dakota artists.
Color & Finish
Features a high-polish yellow gold band with matte/satin textured rose and green leaves. The leaves typically show manual engraving or "bright-cutting" to enhance realism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '10K' or '12K' alongside a maker's mark such as 'C.O.' (Landstrom's/Mt. Rushmore) or a grape leaf/tool symbol for Stamper or Black Hills Gold Jewelry by Coleman.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard female ring size (likely US 6–8); central motif measures approx 10-12mm in width; shank narrows to 2mm at the base.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the design relies on the tri-color metallurgical contrast and hand-textured metal leaves and 'grapes' (gold beads).
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (solid bypass/split-shank ring construction).
Chain & Links
Features a triple split-shank design that merges into a solid comfort-fit band at the rear; non-jointed construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast yellow gold base with individually soldered rose and green gold elements. The leaves exhibit bright-cut engraving to create the highlights on the edges.
Authentication Indicators
The specific hue of the 'green' gold (yellow-green) and the sharp hand-cut striations on the leaf veins are consistent with authentic Black Hills production techniques.
Origin & Maker
United States, specifically South Dakota, USA. Likely manufactured by Landstrom's, Mt. Rushmore Black Hills Gold, or Stamper.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Traditional American Craft; based on the specific leaf texture, it follows the heritage of the mid-20th century to present day.
Age Estimate
Likely circa 1980s to early 2000s based on the split-shank casting and the style of the grape clusters.
Cultural Significance
Represents the official state jewelry of South Dakota. Legend says it was first designed by a French goldsmith, Henri LeBeau, after he got lost in the hills and dreamed of grapes and leaves.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Slight visible scratches on the polished surfaces; the textured finish on the leaves shows some wear and debris accumulation typical of daily use.
Value Estimate
Current market value $100-$180 USD. Melt value is significant but the piece carries a regional craft premium and retail brand value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy chemicals like chlorine which can weaken the alloy. Clean with mild soap and a soft brush specifically between the textured leaf veins. Do not use heavy polishing cloths on the leaves.
Similar Items
Often confused with general tri-color gold jewelry, but distinguished by the specific botanical motif and satin-textured leaf finish. Similar items include Black Hills Gold necklaces or earrings.
Interesting Facts
By South Dakota law, 'Black Hills Gold' can only be called such if it is actually manufactured within the Black Hills of South Dakota.