Object Details
Created by
Art Smith, American, 1917 - 1982
Worn by
Roosevelt Van Williams, died 1977
Description
This is the “Gold ‘n’ Lapis" ring, a ring designed and created by jeweler Art Smith for Roosevelt Van Williams. The ring’s wide and flattened 14k gold band is square shaped. The ends of the square extend at one of the top corners to give the illusion of intersection and creating a vertex setting for a spherical, blue lapis lazuli stone. The two sides of the square that form the vertex are double layered, with a darker patination visible between the layers. The ring has two hallmarks on the interior base of the band, [14K] and Smith’s signature below it, [Art Smith].
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Charles L. Russell
Date
ca. 1970
Object number
2023.12.12
Restrictions & Rights
© Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
Type
finger rings
Medium
fourteen-carat gold with lapis lazuli
Dimensions
H x W x D: 1 3/8 × 1 7/8 × 3/4 in. (3.5 × 4.8 × 1.9 cm)
Place made
New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
See more items in
National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
Classification
Decorative Arts, Craft, and Design
Jewelry and Adornment
Data Source
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Topic
African American
Art
Craftsmanship
Design
Fashion
Fashion design
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmaahc_2023.12.12