Antique Victorian bangle. 18k rose gold, diamonds. Made in France, 19th century - Napoleon III. (Circa 1870's).
Comes with original fitted box.
Measurements:
Weight is 17.1 grams. Length of oval 2 1/2 inches from end to end. Approximate width of band is 5/8 inch (1.5cm)
Description :
A wide rose gold band. Hinged on one side with tongue-in-groove clasp on the other. The top of the band with a frieze of flowers and foliage. A central diamond-set 6-lobed flower from which radiate delicately engraved stems with buds and leaves set with diamonds. Diamonds are recessed - they are not higher than the plane of the bangle, ensuring that they will not catch on anything or be pulled off.
Workmanship is very fine. Diamonds with a lovely twinkle that catches the onlooker's eye. Subtle, understated, classy.
A gold safety chain for additional security.
This bangle comes in its original fitted box. Leather outside with gold-embossed border; blue silk and velvet inner linings.
Marks and Metal:
At least 4 marks on the tongue of the clasp: two horse head marks - used for gold after 1838. One unidentified mark (not quite clear enough to make out what it is). A maker's mark lozenge. The numeral '7' inside on the opposite side of the clasp to the tongue.
Condition:
Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer. Box and catch of box in good order.
THE STORY:
Bangles of this sort were possibly the most popular form of jewelry during the 2nd half of the 19th century. Women realized that their bare arms were possibly their best physical asset and certainly a place to show off their most beautiful jewelry. Bangles of this sort can be worn singly, or stacked with others as far up the arm as the wearer desires. A rare and special feature is that the bangle comes with its original box. This may help explain how the bangle is in such unusually good condition. It's marvelous to consider how many women wore and enjoyed this bangle, took good care of it so that it has come to us in such good shape.
