We have a similar signet piece , which would pair nicely with this ring, up for auction this
week. To view in a separate listing, please visit our store and search
"signet" under our auction items.
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The Piece
Auction Estimate: $500 - $1,000
Age Circa: Mid Century 1935 - 1965
Markings: BALFOUR CO, Tested, Guaranteed
Country of Origin: United States
Brand: BALFOUR & CO
Gram Weight: 7.3 Grams
Metal Type: 10k Yellow Gold
Metal Melt Value: $132.00 (Value All-Inclusive Weight)
Material: --
Main Stone: --
Main Stone Measurements/Color: --
Accent Stone: --
Accent Stone Measurements/Color: --
Stone Treatment: --
Stone Cuts: --
Ring Size: 6.25
Sizable by your local jeweler: Yes
Item Measurements: The ring measures 0.52" long, 0.43" wide and the band is 5.5 mm at the shoulders and tapers to 3.25 mm.
Notable Features: This ring was handmade during the Mid Century period in the Art Deco era. This monogrammed signet ring is made from 10k yellow fold and features the image of a crane or stork bird with one leg up. The sides of the ring are monogrammed with the initials S N B. The inside of the ring has been engraved with the numbers 58 and letters M T C. We believe the number 58 to be the year (1958) the ring was commissioned. The roman numerals on the ring convert to 1873. This ring was hand crafted by the BALFOUR CO and has a smooth polished band for more comfortable wear. Don't miss your chance to own this incredible piece of history!
Damage: Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
The Art Deco era is famous for being the "Gatsby" or "Roaring Twenties" era. A lot of gorgeous and timeless designs in jewelry came out of this period. Jewelry from this period was most often crafted between 1920 and 1940. Art Deco jewelry sometimes featured white gold or platinum, geometric designs, European cut diamonds, filigree, and calibre cut stones that are specifically cut to fit the design of the piece. During the Art Deco period jewelers often made jewelry upon custom order, this would often take weeks to months to completely craft by hand.
The Mid-Century era, 1935 to 1965, encompassed many new styles of art and architecture and this carried over to jewelry making. This exciting time for jewelry saw movements such as Hollywood Regency, Modernism, Brutalism, and the Atomic Age. Native American artisans were also making their mark in the jewelry industry. Artisans used many kinds of metals, gemstones, glass, and experimented with ceramic and wood as well. This era was filled with new and innovative designs, while also rejuvenating and reinventing older styles. The unique jewelry which emerged from this era is still very popular today.
In historical times, signet rings were often quite beautiful, but they were more than that - they had an important role in society. These rings were developed as an identification mark. Rather than signing their name on a document, people would use a signet ring to make their mark. The ring would be pressed into hot wax or soft clay, and would leave a distinctive impression that functioned as an official seal. Used by rulers and religious leaders, a signet ring could be used to mark a document, a doorway, or even to seal a tomb. When someone saw the mark of the king, it proved authenticity. The seal could not be opened without damaging the identifying mark, making it difficult to tamper with.
