Just fabulous! Antique English sterling silver chains with exterior beading or cannonballs are highly desirable. They are rarely found in lengths longer than 16" and most certainly not in this 20" length. Links are grooved and smooth to the touch. Balls are slightly larger than usually seen making this just a spectacular example. This cannonball belcher-style chain is a standard for any Victorian jewelry collector. Perfect for any woman as it is not too bold but yet has lots of personality. A must for a treat for yourself and definitely a perfect gift.
Bolt ring forms a nice tight clasp with each terminated grooved link easily sliding.
Chain is sold by itself. If looking for a possibly chain and locket, feel free to contact us and we will happily work with you to find just the right look.
These sterling silver Victorian chains are all unique. Most were produced either in the Chester or Birmingham regions of England during the 1880's to the turn of the century.
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:20" long
Condition:Links and balls are all in excellent condition. Bolt ring is tight and secure.
Web ID:MA20-417
Price:Free Shipping. We professionally package and can easily, safely ship any item, fully insured, within the US.
