This eight-strand coral bead bracelet is centered by an oval pinchbeck spacer, set with a coral cameo depicting a classical lady. The bracelet opens and closes with a pinchbeck box clasp, which is set with three natural freshwater pearls. The clasp is fitted with an extra safety chain, to prevent it from slipping off unnoticed.
It is very likely that this bracelet was originally bought as a Grand Tour souvenir during a trip to Italy. Coral jewellery depicting classical themes was very popular to take home as a gift or travel memory.
Pinchbeck is an alloy of copper and zinc, that was invented in the early 1800s as a substitute for gold. This alloy ell out of use in the second half of the 19th century, being replaced by low-carat gold which had been legalized in 1854, and the invention of electro gold-plating.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 16 cm / 6 3/8th inches.
Weight: 21.23 grams.
Age: Early 19th Century, Georgian Era, circa 1840s.
Material: Pinchbeck and coral.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that this store is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.