Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Melody Bangle Bracelet
Jewelry (Multi-band Bangle Bracelet) · Tiffany & Co., featuring a design by world-renowned designer Paloma Picasso. Tiffany & Co. was founded in 1837 in NYC and is globally recognized for luxury silver and fine jewelry.
Pattern: Melody Collection (Paloma Picasso), introduced in the late 20th century. It remains a signature collection for the brand, embodying fluid, interlocking movement.
Type
Jewelry (Multi-band Bangle Bracelet)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., featuring a design by world-renowned designer Paloma Picasso. Tiffany & Co. was founded in 1837 in NYC and is globally recognized for luxury silver and fine jewelry.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece consists of multiple interlocking solid silver wire bands that move independently while remaining connected by their overlapping structure.
Dimensions
Standard size is approximately 2.5 inches (63mm) inner diameter. Weight varies by the number of bands (commonly 5, 12, or 15), typically ranging from 45g to 110g of sterling silver.
Description
An iconic example of Paloma Picasso's 'Melody' series for Tiffany & Co. This bangle set features a tangle of intersecting sterling silver bands that create a bold, sculptural look on the wrist. Inspired by the movement of everyday life, the piece is both architectural and organic, known for the pleasant metallic chime it produces as the wearer moves.
Key Features
Closed-loop interlocking bands; absence of a hinged clasp; authentic Paloma Picasso signature stamp; high-quality seamless joins that are nearly invisible to the naked eye.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece consists of multiple interlocking solid silver wire bands that move independently while remaining connected by their overlapping structure.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. This minimalist design relies on the play of light across the curved surfaces of the bands rather than applied ornamentation or engravings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect to find '© Paloma Picasso', 'T & CO.', and '925' or 'STERLING' stamped on the interior surface of one or more of the individual bands.
Construction Details
Machine-drawn sterling silver wire formed into interlocking circles. The bands are seamlessly joined (closed-loop) before being polished to ensure a smooth, fluid movement against the skin.
Functional Features
Interlocking ring-style design allows the bands to roll over the hand and stack naturally on the wrist, creating a rhythmic 'melody' sound when they shift.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is jewelry; however, the 'grip' is designed for ease of slipping over the knuckles without a clasp (slip-on style).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision assembly ensures that each band is perfectly sized so the entire set slides over the hand together. The soldering points on each band are expertly finished to be flush.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment and font of the stamps; weight (should feel substantial, not thin/hollow); the 'ring' sound of the silver; and the seamless transition where each band is joined.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States or Italy (depending on production year). Tiffany & Co. utilizes high-precision workshops in New York and artisan factories in Italy for their silver jewelry lines.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary. Designed by Paloma Picasso, who began her collaboration with Tiffany & Co. in 1980.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The timelessness of the design and lack of specialized date letters (standard for US silver jewelry) makes dating to a specific year difficult without original receipts.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of modern luxury and 'everyday jewelry.' It represents the fusion of fine art (Picasso's lineage) with commercial accessibility and functional design.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. Very light surface scratching (micro-abrasions) consistent with silver pieces rubbing against each other. No warping or misshapen bands; the circular integrity is well-preserved.
Value Estimate
$600 - $1,200 depending on the number of bands (5-band vs 15-band) and current retail price fluctuations. Secondary market value holds strong due to the Tiffany brand name.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth (e.g., Hagerty or Cape Cod). Avoid jewelry dips as the liquid can get trapped between bands. Store in the original Tiffany blue flannel pouch to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Interlocking Circles' bracelet or Georg Jensen 'Fusion' bangles. Competitor pieces from Cartier (Trinity collection) offer a similar interlocking concept but typically in gold.
Interesting Facts
Paloma Picasso is the daughter of Pablo Picasso. Her work for Tiffany is credited with making sterling silver jewelry high-fashion in an era previously dominated by gold.