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Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modernist Studio Jewelry Ring, c. 1965-1975

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a bold, sculptural 'statement' ring that captures the organic, experimental spirit of the mid-20th-century craft movement.

Story

The 1960s saw a radical rebellion against mass-produced, 'cookie-cutter' jewelry as artists began treating metal like clay to create wearable sculptures.

Maker / Origin

While the maker is currently unidentified, this piece follows the tradition of influential modernists like Sam Kramer and Art Smith, who championed the 'Bohemian' aesthetic.

Condition & Value

The metal shows a soft, aged patina and some surface wear consistent with a piece that was loved and worn. The stones appear secure, though there is some minor visible wear to the smaller accent stone's setting.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

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