Summary
An Edwardian or early 20th century hinged bangle with an engraved buckle design, concealed fastening and safety chain. Marked GOLD METAL CORED and suitable for wrists measuring up to approximately 17cm.
Description
An attractive Edwardian / early 20th century hinged bangle designed to resemble a buckled belt. The front is ornamented with an applied buckle top and keeper, raised circular details representing the adjustment holes, and finely engraved flowers and foliage against a textured ground.
The decoration continues around the front sections, while the reverse of the bangle has a contrasting plain polished finish. Its oval hinged form is fitted with a concealed box clasp and an additional fine-link safety chain.
The interior is marked GOLD METAL CORED. This period construction used an outer layer or shell of gold alloy mechanically bonded over a supporting metal core. It provided a much more substantial and durable gold surface than ordinary electroplating while keeping the piece lighter and more affordable than solid gold. This particular bangle does not specify, but they were generally 1/5 gold, the gold tests as 9 carat
The buckle motif was particularly fashionable in jewellery of the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, and the detailed engraving gives this example plenty of period character.
Condition
Good antique condition with light wear and a few surface scratches consistent with age and previous use. The engraved decoration remains well defined.
Approximate Measurements
Maximum Wrist Fit: 17cm [6.69 inches]
Width: 9.5mm [0.37 inches]
Material: Gold metal cored, 9ct Exterior
Mark: GOLD METAL CORED
Date: Late Victorian to Edwardian
Weight: 15.7 grams [0.55oz]
C3002 AG26-1
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