1970s Impressive Pearl and Diamond Statement Ring

$3,500

About

Massive yellow Gold and Pearl cocktail ring. The freeform 14k yellow gold ring with an offset mounting of three freshwater "stick" pearls accented with round white diamonds. This ring is fashioned in the organic style of Arthur King,renown for his love of unusual pearls and tendril-like mountings. This impeccable ring is unsigned. Although King himself was a self-taught jeweler, he had over 30 Bench jewelers who provided his store and outposts with his stylish look. This piece certainly speaks to the quality of the craftsmanship that produced his works. The pearls are lustrous and and in excellent condition, and due to the date of the ring, possibly of Biwa origin. An excerpt from the American Museum of Natural History website states: "In 1914 pearl farmers began culturing freshwater pearls using the pearl mussels native to Lake Biwa. This lake, the largest and most ancient in Japan, lies near the city of Kyoto. The extensive and successful use of the Biwa Pearl Mussel is reflected in the name "Biwa pearls," a phrase nearly synonymous with freshwater pearls in general. Since the time of peak production in 1971, when Biwa pearl farmers produced six tons of cultured pearls, pollution and over-harvesting have caused the virtual extinction of this animal. Japanese pearl farmers now culture a hybrid pearl mussel--a cross between the last remaining Biwa Pearl Mussels and a closely related species from China--in other Japanese lakes." It is stunning on, the offset pearls rest on the knuckle of the hand, elongating the finger. The Large size of the ring is Bold, Showy and incredibly comfortable. We also have a matching pendant/brooch to complete the ensemble. Size 6.5

Details

Metal
14k Gold
Stone
Diamond,Pearl
Weight
25 g
Dimensions
Height: 1 in. (25.4 mm)Width: 1.07 in. (27.18 mm)
Style
Modernist
Place of Origin
United States
Period
1960-1969
Date of Manufacture
1970
Condition
Wear consistent with age and use. I don't think there has been a more difficult ring to photograph in the 25 Years I have been selling 1960's and 70's jewelry! A photo on the hand coming soon..
Seller Location
Cincinnati, OH
Reference Number
1stDibs: LU249500992
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Shipping & Returns

Shipping
Free Express Parcel Shipping
to anywhere in the world, arrives in 6-7 days. We recommend this shipping type based on item size, type and fragility.
Ships From: Cincinnati, OH
Return Policy
A return for this item may be initiated within 3 days of delivery.