Antique Art Nouveau Jade Dragon Ring | 18k Yellow Gold | Untreated Jade | Circa 1910 | Petra Star Vintage Vault

Some pieces arrive already wearing their history. This is one of them.

Crafted circa 1910 at the height of the Art Nouveau movement, this extraordinary ring represents a confluence of Eastern reverence and Western artistic ambition that defined the era's most collectible jewelry. Twin dragons — rendered in rich 18k yellow gold — cradle the central jade cabochon from either side, their tails drawn together gesture that is simultaneously protective and possessive as well as allowing the ring to be adjustable in size due to them be open but touching. 

The Stone

Jade has been among the most spiritually and culturally significant gemstones in the world for over five millennia. In Chinese and East Asian tradition, it embodies purity, longevity, wisdom, and power — qualities mirrored in the dragon motif itself, a symbol of celestial authority and benevolent strength. 

The Period

Art Nouveau jewelers were drawn to jade for reasons both aesthetic and philosophical. Its soft green tones — sometimes accompanied by whispers of lavender, ivory, or warm brown — harmonized perfectly with the movement's earthy, organic palette. Its density invited the kind of meticulous carving and setting that Art Nouveau celebrated. And its origins made it irresistible: the late 19th and early 20th century brought a surge of Western fascination with Eastern aesthetics, and jade became a primary vehicle for that exchange. The dragon, too, was a recurring figure in Art Nouveau's visual vocabulary — appearing alongside lilies, irises, dragonflies, peacocks, and the flowing-haired feminine figures that defined the style.

Maker's Mark

The ring bears the marking KH 18, confirming 18k gold content. Pieces of this age and provenance with clear hallmarking are increasingly difficult to source, and this one arrives in exceptional original condition.

SPECIFICATIONS

RING
Period: Circa 1910, Art Nouveau
Metal: 18k Yellow Gold
Markings: KH 18
Weight: 8.2 grams
Width: 11.1mm tapering to 5mm
Finger Size: 6.5 — 8

JADE
Dimensions: 12.6 x 10mm
Treatment: Untreated 
Setting Style: Bezel, flanked by twin dragon figures with soldered tails