Artisan Tribal-Style Mixed Media Silver Charm Bracelet with Coins and Beads
Jewelry (Charm Bracelet) · Unknown independent jeweler or artisan. The piece lacks a visible commercial brand mark and suggests studio-made or folk-art origins, likely from a craft tradition or tourist market specializing in ethnic-inspired jewelry.
Pattern: Unique/One-of-a-kind (OOAK). The piece uses a variety of non-standardized components including cast silver-tone coins, wrapped cord, and found-object style charms.
Type
Jewelry (Charm Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown independent jeweler or artisan. The piece lacks a visible commercial brand mark and suggests studio-made or folk-art origins, likely from a craft tradition or tourist market specializing in ethnic-inspired jewelry.
Material
Mixed Materials including low-purity silver (likely 800 silver or white metal/nickel silver), cotton/nylon cord, glass beads, and possibly dyed semi-precious stones or resin components. The 'coins' appear to be cast replicas rather than government-minted currency.
Dimensions
Estimated length: 18-20 cm (7-8 inches). Estimated weight: 45-60 grams. The charms are approximately 1.5 cm in diameter.
Description
This eclectic artisan bracelet is a vibrant example of 'Boho-Chic' jewelry design. It features a central cord core intricately wrapped with multicolored threads in earthy tones. Suspended from the cord are various charms, including cast metal discs resembling ancient coins, melon-shaped metal beads, and a mixture of colorful resin or stone accents in salmon pink, jade green, and deep red. It is a highly textured, tactile piece that emphasizes the 'found object' aesthetic common in global folk jewelry.
Key Features
Multi-colored thread-wrapped cord core; cast metal 'coin' charms with relief designs; ribbed melon-style metal spacer beads; integrated colorful stone/glass accents.
Material & Composition
Mixed Materials including low-purity silver (likely 800 silver or white metal/nickel silver), cotton/nylon cord, glass beads, and possibly dyed semi-precious stones or resin components. The 'coins' appear to be cast replicas rather than government-minted currency.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/Antiqued silver finish. The decorative elements include thread-wrapped segments (known as 'zari' or similar textile techniques), cast metal beads with ribbed/melon patterns, and charms featuring bas-relief iconography.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the provided image. Common for this style of folk jewelry to be unmarked or stamped with a simple '925' or 'INDIA' on the clasp, which is not visible here.
Construction Details
Mixed-media assembly. Features hand-wrapped textile cordage, knotted thread attachments for charms, and cast metal components. The assembly relies on fiber strength rather than soldered metal links.
Functional Features
Cord-wrap tension or a toggle/hook closure (presumed based on style). The charms are attached via thread loops or simple metal jump rings.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item). The tactile elements consist of textured cord and smooth rounded beads designed for comfortable wrist wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-assembled. The thread wrapping requires significant manual dexterity. The metal components are mass-cast, then hand-strung and knotted onto the core.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of formal hallmarks suggests non-sterling or low-grade silver alloy. The 'coins' show casting pits and soft edges consistent with jewelry-grade replicas rather than authentic struck currency.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely South Asia (India or Nepal) or Southeast Asia (Thailand/Bali). These regions are known for combining silver-tone metalwork with vibrant textile wrapping and semi-precious stones.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century to Modern. This style blends traditional tribal aesthetics (Bohemian/Ethno-chic) with modern fashion trends popularized in the 1990s through today.
Age Estimate
c. 1990-present day. The condition of the thread and the style of the cast coin replicas suggest it is a modern decorative piece rather than an antique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the globalization of tribal design, where traditional methods like thread-wrapping and coin-dangling are adapted for the international fashion market as 'Bohemian' statement pieces.
Condition Notes
Overall Good condition. There is visible fraying on some of the tassel-end threads and minor oxidation/tarnish on the metal components. The cordage shows slight pilling, consistent with light wear.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal and 'statement' jewelry market rather than precious metal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid immersion in water as it will degrade the textile cord and internal glues. Clean metal parts gently with a dry microfiber cloth. Do not use silver dips or liquid cleaners.
Similar Pieces
Chan Luu wrap bracelets (which use leather and beads); Hill Tribe silver jewelry from Thailand (which is usually higher purity 95% silver but similar in motif).
Interesting Facts
This style of jewelry often incorporates 'Evil Eye' protection motifs or regional coins to serve as amulets for the wearer in their original cultural contexts.