Recently Sold (VB077)

Renaissance Revival - Vintage Gold Plated Opal & Alexandrite Glass Ornate Bracelet. This gorgeous bracelet is crafted from gold plate over metal. Featuring 5 alexandrite glass oval cut faceted gemstones, 5 oval cut cabochon opal glass gemstones, vintage renaissance revival styling, and quality craftsmanship. This bracelet looks as though it came right out of the renaissance period. Each setting is claw set, with an exquisite decorative border, which surrounds each gemstone. The gemstones alternate from opalescent gems, to color change gemstones. The opal glass gems display an array of colors, whilst the alexandrite glass changes color from a reddish/cognac hue to a purple color in different light intensities. The bracelet is made of segments, which allows for flexibility and a comfortable fit. It has hook and clip style closure, which is in perfect working order. This vintage bracelet looks stunning when worn, truly a unique addition to any jewelry collection. 

History: Glass has been used in jewellery for centuries, with examples found dating from 1500AD. It was so popular as a gem imitant in the 11th century, that the guild of goldsmiths in France was required to regulate the use of glass in jewellery. Their approach to do was to use gold for natural gems, silver for glass gems.

In England, John Wright and Henry and George Elkington got the first patent for gold and silver electroplating in 1840. The underpinnings of the process were engineered several decades earlier by a chemist from Italy named Luigi Brugnatelli.

Measurements: Bracelet 6 1/2" 

Stone Size: Opalescent Glass Gemstones 7.00 mm x 5.00 mm   Alexandrite Glass Gemstones  7.00 mm x 5.00 mm 

Weight: 33.20 grams 

Condition: Very Good     Note: Some age related wear to the gold-plate inside the bracelet. The wear does not take away from the beauty of the bracelet. 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1960