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Incredible Ball and Embossed Link Basketweave Antique English Silver Bracelet

Description:

Absolutely fabulous!  Balls and rounded links form the outer edges of this wonderfully designed bracelet.  The ball theme is continued throughout.  A central row of plain links is outlined on each side with links of embossed swirls.  Creating an almost basketweave-type pattern, the plain and embossed links intwined with the balls is mesemerizing.  One of the most amazing link bracelets due to its captiating personality and extraordinary feel.  It is light and silky smooth feeling.  Clasp is nice and tight as well as easy to manipulate.  

Meausres 7" inner circumference.  Perfect for an average wrist.  1" wide allowing it to make quite a statement.  Has lots of personality but not overwhlemingly bold.  Definitely in keeping with the Vicorian period.

Clasp has a button which is depressed and then the slide is pulled out from hidden pocket.  Very secure and will not come loose when tugged.

Registry mark on the back of the clasp.

One of the nicest, early English bracelets we have had.  Definitely something for someone desiring a bracelet which is different and serviceable.

These English bracelets were produced in the 1880's by master jewelers primarily in the Birmingham and Chester regions of England.  In an effort to promote this industry, Queen Victoria was frequently seen wearing numerous pieces of jewelry.  

The ideology in Victorian times was that more was better. Thus, ladies would be adorned with several lockets and bracelets at one time which is why the bracelets were designed with flat sides to make it easier for them to stack and chains will be found in all lengths. This line of thinking better explains the elaborate details of the lockets, earrings, and chains.  Some think of this time as being simpler, but it really was a time of lavishness.  The silver jewelry was often their traveling jewelry while they would save their jewels for galas and gatherings. 

These pieces were not mass produced; thus, each piece is truly a work of art.  They were not made for export to the United States which makes their availability limited. Often one will see pictures of Queen Victoria wearing a locket or another bold piece of jewelry.  This was deliberate as she wanted to promote the industry.  She was so successful that they had to open an assay office in Birmingham.  Assay offices were where the piece was impressed with a stamp indicating type of metal, year of production, and origin of production.  This was certifying the piece by the Crown…somewhat similar to notarizing something today.  Prior to the opening of the Birmingham assay office, the jewelry makers had to send all their wares to London for testing.  Once tested, the piece would then be marked and could be sold for silver. There are books to help you identify each of these assay marks.  The majority of the pieces sold were not marked as there was not a safe means to transport the items to and from the assay offices. 

Dimensions:

7" inner circumference

Condition:

Links are all in good order. Clasp is tight and secure. Does not open when tugged

Web ID:

MA20-377

Price:
$850


Shipping:

Free Shipping. We professionally package and can easily, safely ship any item, fully insured, within the US.



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