Preliminary identification

10K Yellow Gold Moonstone and Tanzanite Insect Ring

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

This whimsical 10-karat yellow gold ring is designed in the form of a stylized beetle or cicada, featuring a smooth, luminous moonstone cabochon as its abdomen. The insect's wings are encrusted with delicate, lavender-blue tanzanite stones, creating a beautiful play of light and color.

Story

Discovered in East Africa in 1967, tanzanite became a global sensation. This ring pairs that modern, exotic gemstone with moonstone, a classic staple of ancient folklore, to create a charming, wearable piece of natural history.

Maker / Origin

The ring bears the maker's mark 'JCR', which is associated with John C. Rinker, an American jewelry manufacturer known for producing high-quality, creative gemstone jewelry in the late 20th century. Rinker's designs often featured playful natural motifs and unique gemstone combinations.

Condition & Value

The ring appears to be in very good vintage condition with minor surface wear to the gold band. All stones appear intact and secure in their settings. Excellent condition with no chipped stones commands the higher end of the value range.

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
$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.