Antique Vintage Deco Retro 14k Yellow Gold Akoya Pearl Ruby 2 Strand Bracelet

Description

We have similar Pearl and Retro items, which would pair nicely with this piece, up for auction this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Pearl" or "Retro" under our auction items.
Listing Description by: Angela A.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000
-
,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 - 1950
Markings:
"14kt" and unidentified maker's mark "ABJ" and partial "14k" on the clasp, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
22.7 grams (1.3 grams approximate clasp weight)
Metal Type:
14k yellow gold
Item Weight Value:
.00 (value all-inclusive clasp weight)
Material:
Silk string
Main Stone:
Saltwater Akoya pearl
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
6.39 mm to 6.92 mm
Color:
lustrous cream hue
Accent Stone:
Natural Ruby
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
2.05 mm
Depth
: 1.53 mm
Color:
semi-translucent deep pink hue
Stone Treatment:
The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Naturally rounded and polished Akoya pearls, round faceted cut rubies
Item Measurements:
Wearable length:
7.25"
Bracelet Type:
Beaded
Closure/Clasp Type:
Push-in locking tab clasp with safety catch
Link Type:
Beads on silk string
Notable Features:
This bracelet was handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. The bracelet consists of two strands of silk upon which saltwater Akoya pearl beads have been strung, as well as a 14k yellow gold four-leaf clover clasp adorned with rubies. The use of so many valuable, lustrous pearls and sparkling rubies in this bracelet is an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style which rose to popularity during the Retro period. Eager to show off their wealth and style, Hollywood celebrities and socialites during this time would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring many colorful precious stones. This bracelet was made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany designs that were influencing the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
There are a total of forty-six large saltwater Akoya pearls strung on the bracelet, all of which would have been hand-harvested off the coast of Japan. The pearls would then have been imported to be made into jewelry, indicating that this bracelet belonged to a wealthy socialite who could afford the costs of importing the stones. Each pearl is cream in hue, displaying a stunning luster as light hits the stones from different angles. After being drilled through the middle and polished, the pearls were strung on two silk string, the jeweler taking care to double knot the silk string between each pearl t
o prevent damage from friction and the loss of beads in case of a break. Three 14k yellow gold spacing bars hold the two strands together.
The 14k yellow gold clasp features the motif of a four-leaf clover, which traditionally symbolizes luck in Irish culture. Five ruby stones adorn the clover motif, each stone showcasing a striking deep pink hue. The rubies rest securely in 14k yellow gold prong settings, the vibrant hue of the yellow gold a gorgeous contrast to the pink rubies. The clover itself contains a textured finish, making it impossible to miss.
Completing the bracelet is a push-in, locking 14k yellow gold push-in tab clasp with a figure-eight safety catch.
A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, this bracelet would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear. Several of the pearls display minor natural pitting, which does not affect wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
The Art Deco era is famous for being the "Gatsby" or "Roaring Twenties" era. A lot of gorgeous and timeless designs in jewelry came out of this period. Jewelry from this period was most often crafted between 1920 and 1935. Art Deco jewelry sometimes featured white gold or platinum, geometric designs, European cut diamonds, filigree, and calibre cut stones that are specifically cut to fit the design of the piece. During the Art Deco period jewelers often made jewelry upon custom order, this would often take weeks to months to completely craft by hand.
Akoya saltwater pearls are cultured from the Akoya oyster and can be found primarily in Japan and China. They are known for their beautiful round shape and exquisite luster that sets them apart from many other types of pearls. They are usually white or cream in color but can have rose or silver undertones. During the Art Deco era, Akoya pearls were rare, expensive to own, and reserved for the richest of the rich.
Rubies are one of the four precious gemstones and are prized for their pink to blood red colors. The most valued hue of ruby is called blood-red, or pigeon blood, for the bright, rich hue it exhibits. The color of a ruby comes from the element chromium. Rubies have adorned royal and religious jewelry for centuries and were especially esteemed in Asian countries like China and India, where they were thought to bring good fortune. Rubies are graded by color, clarity, cut, and carat. Rubies are often also evaluated based on their geographic origin.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
: All packages are sent via USPS and pricing is based on buyer location. Each customer will receive a revised invoice at the close of the auction with an updated shipping rate. We will combine shipping on multiple purchases for free.
We do not undervalue packages for customs, please do not ask us to do so. What you pay is what we will claim on your customs form.
Please take this into consideration before placing your bid.
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