Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This striking vintage ring features a heavily ribbed sterling silver band clasped by a smooth, polished 14-karat yellow gold crescent moon motif. It beautifully exemplifies the mixed-metal aesthetic that dominated high-end casual jewelry in the late 20th century, combining organic textures with sleek celestial geometry.
Story
During the late 1980s, jewelry designers rebelled against the delicate, hidden settings of the past to create bold, tactile statements. This ring captures that shift, using a golden crescent to literally bind together a deeply channeled silver band. It is a piece designed to be felt as much as seen.
Maker / Origin
While the circular maker's mark next to the '925' stamp requires further catalog comparison, the high-quality construction of combining solid 14k gold elements with sterling silver is characteristic of American Southwest and contemporary studio jewelers of the era, such as Kabana or similar New Mexico-based ateliers who popularized this exact style.
Condition & Value
The ring is in very good vintage condition with light surface wear, minor micro-scratching, and a gentle patina consistent with age. Polishing would easily restore a high shine, though many collectors prefer the original vintage patina. Excellent condition overall.
Full Research
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.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.