Preliminary identification

Men's Mid-Century Hematite Signet Ring

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A bold, masculine signet ring featuring a faceted oval hematite stone set within a silver-toned mounting. The design is characterized by its 'stepped' or ribbed shoulders, a hallmark of the transition from Art…

Story

Hematite has been known as the 'Warrior's Stone' for millennia, with legends claiming that ancient Roman soldiers rubbed it on their bodies before battle for protection.

Maker / Origin

While no hallmark is visible in the photos, this style is highly consistent with mid-century manufacturers like Uncas, Vargas, or Ostby & Barton.

Condition & Value

The metal shows a significant patina and surface wear consistent with decades of use, which has given it a soft, matte finish. The hematite stone appears to be in good condition, though close inspection might reveal minor 'flea bites' or abrasions on the facet edges.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD