Preliminary identification

Oscar de la Renta 'Starburst' Cocktail Ring, c. 1990s-2000s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A bold, sculptural 'starburst' or 'urchin' cocktail ring featuring a domed arrangement of radiating metal spikes tipped with black faceted crystals. This piece exemplifies the high-octane glamour and 'more is more' philosophy that defined late 20th-century runway jewelry.

Story

Oscar de la Renta launched his jewelry line to ensure his runway models were perfectly accessorized from head to toe. This ring was designed to catch the light of a gala ballroom, turning a simple gesture into a dramatic statement.

Maker / Origin

Oscar de la Renta was the 'Sultan of Suave,' a Dominican-born designer who dressed every First Lady from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama. His jewelry line is celebrated for its oversized proportions and its ability to make costume materials look like high-jewelry masterpieces.

Condition & Value

The ring shows significant plating wear on the underside and along the radiating spikes, revealing the warmer base metal beneath. All crystals appear present, which is vital for value. The wear to the finish reduces the value by approximately 30%. Oscar de la Renta costume jewelry maintains strong secondary market demand.

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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
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.