Vermeil Sterling Silver Blue Sapphire Floral Cluster Bangle Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unidentified artisan or commercial jewelry manufacturer, likely utilizing standard casting and stone-setting techniques common in mid-to-late 20th-century estate jewelry.
Pattern: Floral cluster centerpiece on a rigid hinged bangle band; unbranded production design.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unidentified artisan or commercial jewelry manufacturer, likely utilizing standard casting and stone-setting techniques common in mid-to-late 20th-century estate jewelry.
Material
Vermeil (gold electroplate over solid sterling silver .925 base metal), set with natural or synthetic blue sapphires in marquise and oval cut configurations.
Dimensions
Standard adult wrist sizing (approx. 6.5 to 7 inches inner circumference); band width tapers from approximately 8mm to 10mm near the floral cluster, which measures roughly 25mm to 30mm in diameter.
Description
An eye-catching vermeil sterling silver bangle bracelet featuring a prominent floral cluster centerpiece. The blossom is meticulously composed of marquise-cut blue sapphires radiating outward like petals from a central oval sapphire cluster. The rich blue stones contrast brilliantly against the warm yellow gold wash of the vermeil setting. The rigid band connects seamlessly to the floral motif via hinged attachments, making it both a stunning visual statement and a comfortable piece of wearable art.
Key Features
Prominent multi-stone blue sapphire floral cluster centerpiece, rich vermeil (gold over sterling silver) finish, and a sturdy hinged bangle design combining architectural metalwork with organic floral motifs.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (gold electroplate over solid sterling silver .925 base metal), set with natural or synthetic blue sapphires in marquise and oval cut configurations.
Finish & Decoration
Polished yellow gold wash over textured or smooth sterling silver, featuring a dimensional multi-petaled floral cluster motif with prong-set blue gemstones.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; typical stamping locations would be on the inner band hinge or clasp mechanism indicating '.925' or 'STERLING' alongside a maker's mark.
Construction Details
Cast metal components, hand-assembled hinge mechanisms, and prong-set gemstone clusters. The core is solid sterling silver finished with a gold-wash overlay (vermeil).
Functional Features
Hinged bangle construction with a secure locking clasp or tension closure allowing for easy donning and removal around the wrist.
Handle & Grip Details
Rigid bangle band structure with integrated hinge and clasp components made of matching vermeil-finished silver.
Craftsmanship Details
Well-executed prong settings that securely hold multi-shaped sapphires in a symmetrical floral arrangement. The integration of the hinge mechanisms demonstrates solid mid-century jewelry assembly standards.
Authentication Indicators
Visual assessment shows characteristic warmth and hue of gold vermeil over sterling silver, standard prong-setting geometry, and period-appropriate casting. Definitive authentication requires loupe inspection for metal stamps (.925) and gemological testing to verify natural versus synthetic sapphire origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Country of origin is indeterminate from the photograph alone, though mass and boutique jewelry manufacturing of this style is common to workshops in the United States, Europe, or Southeast Asia.
Era & Period
Modern / Retro Revival Period (Mid-to-Late 20th Century, circa 1960-1990), drawing stylistic inspiration from classic Victorian and Edwardian floral jewelry designs.
Age Estimate
Estimated circa 1960 to 1990, based on the styling, construction techniques, and popularity of vermeil gemstone cluster jewelry during this era.
Cultural Significance
Floral motifs in jewelry have symbolized romance, nature, and vitality across multiple centuries. Sapphire represents wisdom, nobility, and loyalty, making sapphire-adorned jewelry perennial favorites for special occasion gifts and heirloom pieces.
Condition Notes
The bracelet exhibits moderate surface wear and signs of tarnish or loss of the gold wash (vermeil) on high-friction areas of the band, consistent with gentle use. The gemstone settings appear intact with no obvious missing stones visible in the image. Overall condition is Very Good.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail or secondary market value ranges from $150 to $450 USD, heavily dependent on the total carat weight and natural origin of the blue sapphires, maker's marks, and the overall preservation of the gold vermeil plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemical dips, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive polishing cloths, as they can strip the delicate gold vermeil plating and damage softer gemstones. Store in an individual anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Similar floral cluster bangles by makers like David Webb, Tiffany & Co., or various vintage estate jewelry houses featuring precious or semi-precious stones set in yellow gold or vermeil.
Interesting Facts
The use of 'vermeil' dates back centuries as a technique to provide the luxurious appearance of solid gold while utilizing more accessible sterling silver as a structural base, a practice that gained immense popularity in mid-century costume and fine fashion jewelry.