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54" Alternating Twist Bar Link Antique English Silver Chain - Chain Only

Description:

Fascinating alternating twist and bar links create a unique English chain.  Double twists form one link while the next is a plain cylindrical bar.  These links are connected by plain silver rings.  Measuring thirty inches long, this is a perfect length for someone looking for a longer chain. The interesting different links allow this to be a perfect option for someone looking for a long chain with a bit of personality.  It can be doubled to form a layered shorter chain. 

Links are small enough for which most locket bales can slide.  Clasp is formed from a dog clip and ring.  Dog clip has a portion which can be pushed in creating an opening.  Ring can then be slid onto the clip.  The pushed in portion then springs back and secures the clasp. 

If so desired, a locket or pendant can be added to the dog clip instead of slid onto the chain. Dog clips or bolt rings can be found on most Victorian chains.

Chain and locket are sold separately.

These sterling silver Victorian chains are all unqiue.  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:

54" long

Condition:

Pristine condition. Dog clip is secure and in perfect order.

Web ID:

MA20-403

Price:
$650


Shipping:

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



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