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Chunky Curb, Engraved Link Antique English Bracelet

Description:

Absolutely lovely!  Unlike most curb link chain bracelets, this bracelet has amazing chunky links.  Each link is embossed with a unique design consisting of petals or leaves. Although it has considerable weight, it is not heavy to wear.  It is light and silky smooth feeling.  The link bracelets are perfect to be worn on their own and are fabulous when layered with other bracelets or bangles.  Clasp is nice and tight as well as easy to manipulate.  Has a safety chain for additional security.  

Measures 6.5" inner circumference.  Perfect for an average wrist.  1/2" wide allowing it to make quite a statement.  Has lots of personality but not overwhlemingly bold.  

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

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:

6.5

Condition:

Links are all in good order. Clasp is tight and secure. Does not open when tugged. Has a safety chain for extra security.

Web ID:

MA20-375

Price:
$550


Shipping:

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



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