Victorian gold and diamond mesh, plaited / braided bracelet with Classic Revival clasp. Made circa 1860-80. Measures 6 7/8 inches long (not including the tongue of the clasp). Clasp is over 3/4 inch accross; Braid approx 5/8 inch accross. Weighs 27.6 grams. Beautifully braided mesh in 14k gold. Silky smoothe, with luxurious texture. Totally supple and simply enfolds the wrist. Wonderful Classic Revival clasp with applied filigree and granulated decoration. The clasp is also set with 3 diamonds, each approx 15-16 points and facet cut with a lovely sparkle and shine. There are loops for a security chain, but currently none is present. The tongue of the clasp is hallmarked 14k. Very good condition. Unusual for such delicate work, there are no snaggy bits/broken pieces. For comparison: page 61 of Kaplan's 2005 book on Antique Jewelry shows a number of mesh bracelets, none with diamonds, priced from $5000 (for a Cartier example) to $2200 for a very simple Victorian example and a pair for $6500.-

Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Antique Jewelry