Vintage 10K or 14K Gold Purple Amethyst/Glass Solitaire Signet Ring
Unbranded (Possible makers: Ostby & Barton, Shiman, or unmarked craft jeweler) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Fine Jewelry
Era / Decade
Early 20th Century (Circa 1910-1940s) based on the bypass/flowing shoulder design and setting style.
Material
Yellow gold (likely 10K or 14K based on color and common era alloys) with a rectangular step-cut purple stone, possibly amethyst or synthetic corundum/glass.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The metal shows significant surface scratches and a dull patina; there appears to be a slight indentation/bend in the thin band near the bottom.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. Vintage gold jewelry remains a high-demand flip due to the intrinsic value of precious metals and the trend for 'antique' aesthetic jewelry.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$125 - $275 (Depends heavily on gold weight and if the stone is genuine amethyst vs glass)
Estimated Retail Value
$450 - $600 (Modern equivalent artisan gold ring price)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded 10k vintage amethyst rings typically sell for $130-$180 on eBay; branded pieces like Ostby & Barton can fetch $300+.
Description
Elegant vintage yellow gold ring featuring a central rectangular purple stone. The setting incorporates Art Nouveau/Deco transitional elements with smooth, flowing shoulders that wrap toward the stone. The stone is a rich violet hue with a rectangular table cut. Perfect as a dainty pinky ring or a classic stacker.
Key Features
Antique/vintage appeal, solid gold melt value floor, desirable purple gemstone color, unique architectural shoulder design.
Authenticity Indicators
Confidence level: Medium. Must check inside the band for hallmarks (e.g., '10K', '14K', or a '12K GF' which would indicate plated). The wear pattern suggests solid gold rather than plating, as no base metal is peeking through high-friction areas.
Flaws to Note
Significant surface wear on the gold; band is thin at the bottom and potentially misshapen; blurry image makes it hard to see if the stone has facet wear (flea bites).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage/antique), eBay (fastest sale), or Ruby Lane (higher-end antique buyers).
Selling Tips
Clean with a professional jewelry cloth but do not over-polish. Use a macro lens to photograph hallmark stamps and the stone's edges. Identify the ring size using a mandrel. Mention 'Art Deco style' and 'February birthstone' in the title.