Antique / vintage pair of bangles / bracelets. High carat yellow gold, old Burmese rubies and pearls. Made in India first half of the 20th century.
Accompanied by GIA certificate stating that the rubies are natural rubies from Burma (Myanmar).
Measurements:
Outer diameter is 2 5/8inches (6.5cm). Inner diameter is 2 2/8 inches (5.8cm). Will fit most wrists. Combined weight is 45.3 grams. <P><P>
44 rubies weigh total approximately 16.00 ct.
Description:
Rich gold bands with unusual and highly attractive technique for holding the gemstones and pearls. Rubies alternate with pearls. We know that the rubies are old, Burmese. We believe the pearls are cultured. The inner surface of the bangles are lined with a form of lacquer, typical of Indian jewelry (it helps support the gold). Bangles are hinged and have convenient, secure clasps.
Gold was acid tested at least 18k.
Good condition.
Please see enlarged 'photos and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
Antique Indian jewelry used to be easy to find and relatively reasonable to buy. In those days, people did not understand the value of these beautifully made jewels. Indians were not as conscious of their cultural heritage. The world in general, was not as aware of the wonderful gems that were to be found in the collections of the descendants of the Mughal emperors. During the early 19th century, the Cartiers led the stampede to obtain as much as possible
from Indian princes. As recently as a few decades ago, gold ethnic jewelry from India we relatively plentiful. Since then, a lot has changed. In the first place, Indians have become aware of just how special their tribal and cultural jewelry is. From every standpoint - the techniques and workmanship, the designs, symbolism and social significance, this jewelry is a standout. Almost overnight, Indian jewelry became scarcer than hen's teeth. Prices rose steeply, not entirely concomitant to the rising price of gold - always a draw in India. For Indian women, jewelry and gold was their bank and security in a world that allowed them no other property of their own.
Today, it is all but impossible to find jewelry like these bangles in India.
Because the techniques and style of jewelry in India remained consistent over centuries in a particular area, it is not very easy to date Indian jewelry. What does "old" mean? 50, 100 or 150 years old? We can make an educated guess that these bangles are somewhere between 75 and 100 years old, but there is little way of being certain. Was is very sure, is that you will not easily find another pair, let alone in this condition.
Decades ago, these bangles were independently appraised at $12350.- Since then the value of the materials as well as the growing scarcity of antique Indian jewelry will have raised the value.
