Recently Sold (VB096)

Color & Luminescence - Vintage Gold Plated Natural Australian Opal & Freshwater Pearl Bracelet.  This pretty bracelet is crafted from gold plate over metal.  Featuring one natural round cabochon opal, numerous natural freshwater pearls, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This lovely bracelet showcases a decorative gold plated clasp, in perfect working order. The clasp is set with a beautiful white opal, displaying an array of colors in different light intensities. The bracelet is strung with 3 rows of lustrous freshwater white pearls, displaying overtones of luminescent cream, pink, and green.  This lovely vintage bracelet would make a perfect bridal or special occasion piece to be enjoyed for many years to come.  

History: Greek mythology stated that opals originated from Zeus' joyful tears after winning the battle against the Titans. Meanwhile, Australian aborigines believed that the Creator came to Earth on a rainbow, leaving these colorful stones where his feet touched the ground.

Australian opals discovered during the late 1800's found little favour with European markets but their commercial value increased in the 1900's and in 1932 Australia took over as the major producer of opals in the world and remains the largest producer to this day.

Freshwater pearls are produced by Hyriopsis cumingi (triangle shell) and Hyriopsis schlegeli (Biwa shell) commercially in China, and other bivalve mussels that live in lakes, riverbeds and creek bottoms in Japan (Biwa pearls and Lake Kasumigaura pearls), as well the United States (Mississippi River Basin).

The technology behind gold plated jewelry is credited to Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1805, he discovered the process for electroplating. It was quickly adopted for jewelry styles, with many Victorian jewelry pieces using gold plating.

Measurements: 7 "- 7 3/4"   Note: Fits the smaller size when the strands of pearls are twisted. 

Stone Size: Opal .15 carats      Freshwater Pearl 5.00 mm x 4.00 mm 

Weight: 11.40 grams 

Condition: Very Good      Note: Some age related wear to the back of the clasp. 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1980