Kieselstein-Cord
Barry Kieselstein-Cord is an American designer celebrated for sculptural, high-relief gold and sterling silver jewelry — alligator, frog, and other naturalistic motifs cast with extraordinary detail. His pieces are held in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and command strong collector demand. Austin Auction Gallery sells and appraises Kieselstein-Cord jewelry.
What it's worth
Sterling silver pieces, including the well-known alligator belt buckles, bring solid mid-range prices given their sculptural quality and collector recognition. Pieces in 18k gold, or with diamond or gemstone accents, bring substantially more. Larger, more detailed sculptural pieces outperform simpler jewelry from the line.
Our sold results
Auction results for Kieselstein-Cord
Showing 4 results
Auction Results
| Lot | Sold | Price realized |
|---|---|---|
| ESTATE BARRY KIESELSTEIN-CORD (B.1948) STERLING SILVER 'DOUBLOON' RING | Jul 2026 | $300 |
| BARRY KIESELSTEIN-CORD (ATTRIB.) SILVER ALLIGATOR BUCKLE | Sep 2024 | $375 |
| BARRY KIESELSTEIN-CORD STERLING ALLIGATOR BELT BUCKLE | Sep 2024 | $200 |
| (3) ESTATE BARRY KIESELSTEIN-CORD STERLING SILVER FROG JEWELRY SUITE | Jul 2024 | $350 |
Overview & history
Barry Kieselstein-Cord began designing jewelry in 1972 and became known for a highly sculptural, three-dimensional style unlike the flatter, more traditional jewelry of his era. His signature motifs — alligators, frogs, and other animal forms rendered in richly detailed relief — were cast in 18k gold and sterling silver with a level of sculptural detail that earned his work a place in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a rare honor for a working jewelry designer. His belt buckles, cufflinks, and rings in these animal motifs are the most recognizable and sought-after pieces. Value depends on the material (sterling versus 18k gold), the specific motif, and the size and detail of the casting.
Identifying & marks
Look for the 'Kieselstein-Cord' or 'K-C' signature stamped into the piece, along with metal content marks. The quality and precision of the sculptural detail — scales, texture, and anatomical accuracy on animal motifs — is itself a strong indicator of an authentic piece, as the casting quality is difficult to replicate.
Frequently asked
What could my Kieselstein-Cord bring at auction?
Sterling silver pieces, including the well-known alligator belt buckles, bring solid mid-range prices given their sculptural quality and collector recognition. Pieces in 18k gold, or with diamond or gemstone accents, bring substantially more. Larger, more detailed sculptural pieces outperform simpler jewelry from the line.
How do I identify Kieselstein-Cord?
Look for the 'Kieselstein-Cord' or 'K-C' signature stamped into the piece, along with metal content marks. The quality and precision of the sculptural detail — scales, texture, and anatomical accuracy on animal motifs — is itself a strong indicator of an authentic piece, as the casting quality is difficult to replicate.
How do I sell my Kieselstein-Cord?
Austin Auction Gallery offers free, no-obligation appraisals. Send a few photos and our specialists will tell you what it could bring at auction, then handle every step from cataloging through the sale.
What could your Kieselstein-Cord bring at auction?
Our specialists provide free, no-obligation auction estimates. Send a few photos and we'll tell you what it could bring.