Antique Victorian bracelet bangle with locket drop. 15k gold and other. Made in the United Kingdom, circa 1880's.
Comes in original fitted box.
Measurements:
Weight is 19.8 grams. Length approximately 9 inches (23.cm) not including tongue of clasp. Drop is 1 1/4 inches (3cm). 7 beads measure 7.98mm and the locket bead measures 12.90mm.
Description :
A 15k gold chain with 7 stations, each with a round gold bead. The center of the chain with drop ending in a large round gold bead that reveals itself as a locket when opened. True to fantastic Victorian workmanship, a well-hidden notch allows you to open the larger bead. Inside the locket contains place for two portraits, items of sentiment or mementos. Original glass cover on both sides is present. Locket closes securely and hinge/opening is difficult to see unless you know it is there.
Tongue in groove clasp is almost indistinguishable from the other gold beads, with the tongue inserted into the terminal gold bead. Clasp opens with a push/lever - very easy to operate.
Safety chain for additional security.
The bracelet comes in its original, fitted box of gold-embossed leather on the outside and silk and velvet inside. the top with Royal Crown, indicating royal patronage and the name of the retailer A.B. Simmens, Goldsmith & Silversmith, Folkstone.
Marks and Metal:
Tongue of clasp is marked 15CT. The bracelet actually tested above 15k in parts. The safety chain was tested as 10k. We must remember that gold was not as homogenous in the Victorian period as it is today. Therefore, the same item might be marked 15CT and test at different purities in different places. Inside of box marked per description above.
Condition:
Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Box is also in very good shape. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
Sometimes, we are shocked at just how modern antique jewelry can look. This is an example of a design from about 150 years ago, that is as timeless and wearable today as it was during the Victorian era and will be 150 years from now. The apparent simplicity and clean lines, the quality of the workmanship and clever detail are typical of Victorian era jewels - understated, elegant and sophisticated.
The box is not just a means of protecting the gold jewelry: it is concrete evidence of the origins and history of the bracelet. The crown embossed in the lid tells us that this establishment was a resource for royalty.
