14K Yellow Gold Pear-Cut Sapphire and Diamond Accent Ring
Ring (Cocktail/Fashion) · Yellow Gold (standard alloy with copper and silver) with small White Gold/Rhodium accents in the stone settings.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This is a common North American jewelry standard balancing rich color with high durability.
Type
Ring (Cocktail/Fashion)
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This is a common North American jewelry standard balancing rich color with high durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard alloy with copper and silver) with small White Gold/Rhodium accents in the stone settings.
Weight
3.5 to 5.0 grams (solid construction for a standard semi-mount style).
Description
A striking vintage 14K yellow gold cocktail ring featuring a deep midnight-blue pear-cut sapphire. The gemstone is elegantly showcased between sloping gold shoulders inset with white gold channels holding diamond accents. The design offers a balanced silhouette, blending the warmth of yellow gold with the brilliance of icy white accents.
Key Features
Unique 'V-prong' to protect the fragile point of the pear cut; tiered shoulder design creates a sense of movement; high-polish yellow gold contrast with white-gold diamond settings.
Color & Finish
The gold displays a classic warm yellow luster with a high-polish mirror finish. Some slight surface patina indicates gentle previous wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the inner shank, potentially accompanied by a maker's mark or 'TH' (for Thailand origin) common in mid-market retail.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated US ring size 6 to 7. Main sapphire approximately 8x5mm; shank width tapers from 4mm at the shoulders to 2mm at the base.
Gemstones & Inlays
One pear-cut dark blue sapphire (likely heat-treated) held by a three-prong V-tip setting. Accented by three small round brilliant diamonds (approx. 0.03ct total) on each shoulder in white-metal illusion settings.
Clasp & Closure
N/A (Continuous band)
Chain & Links
Tapered shank with a 'D-shape' profile for comfort; solid shoulders leading to a cathedral-style setting.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial quality cast piece. The soldering of the head to the shank is well-executed. The diamond settings are 'illusion' style to make small stones appear larger through reflective white-metal surrounds.
Authentication Indicators
Color saturation of the 14K alloy; depth of the setting facets; presence of 'white' plating in diamond channels; lack of 'tarnishing' common in gold-plated brass.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced by a large-scale manufacturer in the United States or Thailand for a jewelry retail chain like Zales or Kay Jewelers.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980s-1990s). The bypass-style influences and heavy pear center are hallmarks of late-century commercial fine jewelry.
Age Estimate
Approximately 25-35 years old (Production likely between 1985 and 1995).
Cultural Significance
Gold and Sapphire combinations have been symbols of royalty and 'fidelity' since the Middle Ages. This specific style reflects the suburban prosperity and bold jewelry trends of the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The gold shows light surface scratching (swirls). prongs appear intact but the V-tip on the pear sapphire should be checked for snagging. The sapphire shows minor facet wear consistent with age.
Value Estimate
$350 - $550 USD (Retail Replacement) or $180 - $250 USD (Secondary Market/Resale). Melt value of the gold is likely $140-$170 based on current spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the sapphire has many inclusions. Professional polishing can remove surface scratches.
Similar Items
14K Amethyst Pear Ring (less valuable center), 10K Sapphire Rings (lighter gold content), or modern custom lab-grown sapphire rings (more color clarity, less gold weight).
Interesting Facts
The pear cut, also known as the Pendeloque or teardrop, was first created in the 1400s by Lodewyk van Bercken. It remains one of the most difficult shapes to set properly in gold due to the fragile tip.