A handsome survivor with the color of the Aegean and the warmth of handwork.
This vintage wide band ring is a classic example of mid-century champlevé enamel from the Eastern Mediterranean/Balkan region, c. 1930s–1960s. Deep royal-blue enamel fills recessed panels around the band, each centered by a stylized Greek-cross/rosette device. Between the blue panels, gilt segments are engraved with four-petal rosettes over a fine cross-hatched ground. The look is bold, old-world, and wonderfully wearable—equally at home with denim or a black dress.
What makes it special is the technique. In champlevé, the design is carved or stamped into the metal and those recessed cells are filled with glass enamel, then fired. Unlike surface paint, vitreous enamel is actual glass permanently fused to the ring—giving that luminous, jewel-like blue that collectors love. Here, the maker combined the blue panels with engraved gilt rosettes so the ring reads as a rhythm of light and color all the way around. It is a simple idea done beautifully.
I believe the ring is gilt brass/tombac—a yellow base metal with a thin gold wash. You can see honest wear to the gilt along the edges and interior from decades of use, which is exactly what you want to see on an authentic mid-century piece. The interior shows that soft, old patina and the outside still flashes blue when it catches the light. If you enjoy jewelry with a little life story in it, you’ll smile every time you look down.
Design language & likely origin: The alternating Greek-cross/rosette devices, royal-blue palette, and cross-hatched engraved grounds appear widely in Balkan and Eastern Mediterranean artisan workshops in the mid-20th century—Greece, Turkey, and neighboring regions produced souvenir and everyday jewelry using champlevé panels just like this. It’s the kind of ring you’d find in a coastal shop near a harbor, bought to remember a journey—and then worn for years because it’s comfortable and handsome.
Measurements & fit: The ring measures approximately US size 7 on my mandrel (please allow for the width; wide bands can feel about a half-size snugger). The width is about 9–10 mm, giving it that satisfying, substantial presence without feeling bulky. It looks great on any hand and stacks well with plain gold bands.
Condition (read me): Vintage and lovingly worn. Expect scattered enamel losses, tiny edge nicks, and softening to the gold wash, all visible in the photos. The enamel remaining is stable and glossy; the losses actually create a gentle timeworn character that suits the piece. I have not polished the ring, only dusted it, because many collectors prefer the original patina. If you want it brighter, a light hand-polish of the gilt areas (avoiding the enamel) would do the trick, but personally I’d keep the soul intact.
Why collectors love this ring
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Genuine mid-century champlevé enamel—a craft method with real glass, not paint.
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That royal-blue is saturated and classic, pairing beautifully with the warm gilt.
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All-around pattern: no “back,” so it looks good from every angle.
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Comfortable wide band profile you can wear daily.
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The piece bridges “costume” and “artisan”—less fussy than fine jewelry, more character than modern reproductions.
Care tips: Treat enamel like glass. Avoid harsh knocks on stone countertops, skip ultrasonic cleaners, and keep away from strong chemicals. A soft damp cloth for the enamel and a gentle jewelers’ cloth on the metal is perfect. Store individually, and it will reward you with decades more of color.
Gift-ready story: If you’re buying for someone who loves travel, history, folk art, or simply the color blue, tuck a little note about champlevé inside the box. “The blue is not paint—it’s real glass fused into the ring.” That sentence never fails to charm.
Shipping & my small-town promise: I pack with care, ship quickly, and treat you the way I’d like to be treated—kindly, clearly, and with respect. The photos are taken in natural light with no tricks; what you see is what you’ll receive. If you ever have a question, message me and I’ll answer thoughtfully and fast. I’m a one-person shop, and I stand behind every piece I offer.
Specifications
• Era: Mid-20th century (c. 1930–1960)
• Region: Eastern Mediterranean/Balkan workshop (style-attribution)
• Materials: Gilt brass/tombac; vitreous champlevé enamel
• Color: Royal blue with warm gold-tone panels
• Size: approx. US 7 (wide band may feel slightly snug)
• Band width: ~9–10 mm
• Condition: Vintage wear—enamel losses and softened gilt; structurally sound and wearable
Pricing: I’m starting the auction at $99.99 with a Buy It Now of $129.99 to keep things fair and simple for everyone who’s been hunting for a genuine mid-century enamel band with character.
If you collect vintage enamel or you’ve been longing for a ring with soul, this is a lovely, honest example—the kind of piece that makes outfits feel finished and hands feel fully yours. Thank you for looking, and happy bidding!
