This lovely set of two identical bangle bracelets are each set with a continuing row of natural pearls, bordered by two bands of blue enamel. Each bracelet opens and closes with a box-clasp.
In the second half of the 19th Century, the wrist was often emphasized in fashion, and therefore bracelets were an important part of a Victorian wardrobe. It was very fashionable matching bracelets on each wrist.
A sweet little anecdote that shows how common pairs of bracelets were, is that when Queen Victoria once gifted a little girl she encountered with a bracelet, the girl thanked her and put up her other wrist, expecting that she was being gifted a set!
Over time, bracelet sets were however often broken up, for instance because it was an easy way to divide an inheritance between two sisters. Therefore, nowadays it is quite rare to find a matching antique pair.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: One of the bracelets is perfectly round, the other ever so slightly oval. The round one has a diameter of 52 mm, the inner dimensions of the slightly oval one are 53 x 51 mm.
Weight: 14.20 and 14.30 grams: 28.50 grams combined.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1880s.
Material: Each bangle is acid tested as being 14k gold.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with their age. One bracelet has some minor damage to the enamel: this is visible in the last picture.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.