Vintage-Style 925 Sterling Silver Marcasite Openwork Ring (Yellow Gold Gilt Interior)
Ring (Cocktail/Fashion/Openwork) · Yellow Gold plating used as a decorative contrast inside the band of a silver item
Purity: Gold Vermeil or Gold-Plated over 925 Silver (Estimated 14K-18K gilding on interior)
Type
Ring (Cocktail/Fashion/Openwork)
Purity
Gold Vermeil or Gold-Plated over 925 Silver (Estimated 14K-18K gilding on interior)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating used as a decorative contrast inside the band of a silver item
Weight
4-6 grams total (Estimated mixed metal weight)
Description
A striking sterling silver cocktail ring featuring intricate milgrain textures and pave-set marcasite stones. The interior of the band is accented with a yellow gold wash (vermeil) to provide a warm tonal contrast against the oxidized antique-finish silver. The design borrows heavily from 1920s Art Deco aesthetics.
Key Features
Contrasting gold-tone interior, dense milgrain work, rose-cut marcasite stones, openwork gallery
Color & Finish
High-polish silver exterior with oxidized recesses; pale yellow gold gilt interior; dark metallic-gray marcasites
Hallmarks & Stamps
925 stamp indicating sterling silver; possible maker's mark 'MJ' or similar obscured initials adjacent to purity
Dimensions Estimate
Ring size 6-7 (US); face width approximately 10-12mm narrowing to 3mm at back
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Marcasite (pyrite), rose-cut, pave-set within milgrain bordered bezels
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; solid continuous band construction
Chain & Links
D-shape band profile with openwork filigree/scrollwork shoulders
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax investment casting; hand-set marcasites; machine-applied gold electroplate on the interior walls
Authentication Indicators
925 stamp matches silver luster; gold content is a thin surface layer (gilt) rather than solid gold; hallmark depth is consistent with casting
Origin & Maker
Likely Southeast Asian production (Thailand or Bali) based on the specific marcasite-on-silver styling
Era & Period
Vintage Art Deco Revival (likely late 20th century, circa 1980s-1990s)
Age Estimate
Approximately 25-40 years old (Contemporary/Late 20th century vintage)
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratizing of jewelry design, making 'high-fashion' looks accessible through silver and gold gilding
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor oxidation on silver, some wear to the internal gold gilding (brassing), stones appear secure
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 (Primarily based on design and labor; gold content is negligible melt value)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry silver cloth and avoid liquids; ultrasonic cleaners may loosen the glued-in marcasite stones; avoid polishing the gold interior too harshly
Similar Items
Modern Pandora silver rings, Judith Jack marcasite jewelry, Thai artisan silver filigree rings
Interesting Facts
Marcasite jewelry was extremely popular in the Victorian and Art Deco eras as an affordable alternative to diamond 'brilliance' in evening wear.