How do I find out what this engagement ring is worth and what the initials stand for?

Question

I have a ring that an ex gave me back in the late 80's, early 90's. It was his great grandmother's engagement ring and as we remained friends I was told to keep it.

I had it appraised and the gentleman told me it was a very beautiful piece and definitely an antique engagement ring. He also stated he had read an article that had put some rings above $500,000 and this possibly was one of them. The initials in my ring are JS, he said he couldn't remember if it was JS or JK. How could I find out? I'm very iffy about sending this ring off to have it appraised, which is what he wanted to do.

It has 12 diamonds surrounding a gem in the center. I'm not sure what the gem is, I forget what he had said it was. It's not ruby & not garnet but a similar color to those, a bit more purple with a beautiful, sturdy setting.

Inside says JS 14k.

Answer 1

You had the ring appraised and didn't get a value for it? He GUESSED that it MIGHT be worth $500,000 or more? I hope that you didn't pay this guy. He didn't give you value for your payment.

You should have this ring INSURED as soon as possible. Like 20 years ago. Do you have an insurance agent for your homeowners/renters insurance? Talk to him/her and ask them for a reference for a fine jewelry appraiser. Most homeowners/renters policies have limits for jewelry and art. If that ring is worth more than a few thousand dollars you need an appraisal to get anywhere near its value.

As to the JS 14k, JS is probably the initials of the jeweler who fashioned the ring. 14k means that the metal in the ring is 14 karat gold.

Answer 2

ask a reputable jeweler, that also sells estate jewelry, or call the "antique roadshow" for references.