A wonderful authentic Oriental bracelet with gilded filigree and carved amethysts. Marked "China". The bracelet is approx 7 inches long and the panels are approx 1 5/16th of an inch wide The stones are approx 1 inch long by 5/8 inch wide, Bracelet weighs approx 48.2 grams.
Filigree jewelry reached the height of its popularity during the 1920's The style was intricate, vintage jewelry was delicate, and the pieces had a romantic feel. The technique was particularly widespread in Oriental metalwork, and when influences from the Orient spread, so did filigree jewelry. The complex design is created from thin, pliable threads of metal, which are then twisted, curled and shaped into place, so that they give the illusion of lace. Small beads are also created, and together with the threads, they are soldered onto the surface of the metal.
The design of this bracelet is eye-catching, but so is the color! Up until the 18th century, amethyst was regarded as one of the world's most valuable gemstones. The Egyptians used it as an amulet for success, or to bring calmness when they were in danger, while the Ancient Greeks believed that it would protect them against intoxication. Amethyst comes in a variety of purple shades - from light pink to deep purple, and it is a hard type of quartz - which makes it suitable for use in jewelry approx making.
This original bracelet is in very good condition, and it has a chain attached to the back - so that you never have to worry about losing it.