This unusual bracelet is made up of five coconut links, which are carved in the shape of tree branches. Each branch is decorated with tiny rose gold dots, and the ends are also fitted in rose gold settings.
Bracelets like these were worn by enslaved women and their ancestors of African descent who lived in Bahia region of Brazil. The symbolism used in their jewellery had a mix of African, Catholic, and European origins. Since originally sumptuary laws prohibited slaves to wear silver or gold, other materials were used like in this bracelet, although later silver and gold jewels were also both produced and worn.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 22 cm or 8 6/8th inches long.
Weight: 8.80 grams.
Age: 19th Century.
Material: Coconut with gold details, which are acid-tested as at least 14k gold.
Condition: The bracelet is in good antique condition with only minor signs of use, consistent with age. Some branches have small scatches. The clasp is a replacement.
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