Created by
Smith, Art, American, 1917 - 1982
Worn by
Smith, Art, American, 1917 - 1982
Date
ca. 1954
Medium
sterling silver with Mexican opal
Dimensions
H x W x D: 1 5/8 × 1 × 3/4 in. (4.1 × 2.5 × 1.9 cm)
Description
This is the “Floating Opal ring” designed, created, and worn by jeweler Art Smith. The ring’s band is a sterling silver wire for the base with two additional wires soldered on the bridge. From the base of the ring, a piece of sterling silver wire curves vertically to the bridge of the ring, where the head of the gemstone lays over the layered bridge. The Mexican opal gemstone is set in a bezel setting, encased in metal overlapping the edges of the gemstone. The ring has one hallmark on the vertical wire holding the gemstone, Smith’s signature [Art Smith].
Classification
Decorative Arts, Craft, and Design
Jewelry and Adornment
Type
finger rings
Topic
Art
Craftsmanship
Fashion
Fashion design
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Charles L. Russell
Object number
2023.12.7
Restrictions & Rights
© Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd569db8d77-c6af-4bd2-9dfd-8aba07991f3c

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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