L.W. & G. 9ct Gold Bonded Bronze Core Bangle, 'Lagarmi' Series
Jewelry (Bangle Bracelet) · L.W. & G. (Lawrence Whelan & Griffin), a British mid-20th-century jewelry manufacturer known for producing high-quality gold-bonded items under the trade name 'Lagarmi'.
Pattern: 'Lagarmi' Series; part of a specialized line of reinforced gold bangles designed for durability and daily wear.
Type
Jewelry (Bangle Bracelet)
Maker
L.W. & G. (Lawrence Whelan & Griffin), a British mid-20th-century jewelry manufacturer known for producing high-quality gold-bonded items under the trade name 'Lagarmi'.
Material
9ct Gold bonded/overlay with a Bronze core. This is not solid gold or silver, but a hybrid construction consisting of a structural bronze interior for strength, covered by a layer of genuine 9-carat gold.
Dimensions
Standard bangle diameter approximately 6-7cm; weight is typically heavier than a hollow solid gold bangle due to the dense bronze core (approx. 20-40g).
Description
This is a classic British jewelry piece designed for both elegance and longevity. By utilizing a bronze core, the manufacturer L.W. & G. created a bangle that possesses the warm luster of 9ct gold with a weight and durability that far exceeds hollow alternatives. The 'Lagarmi' brand was a hallmark of reliable mid-market luxury in the UK.
Key Features
The distinctive 'BRONZE CORE' stamp and 'LAGARMI' branding are the primary identifiers. The construction technique was a proprietary response to the cost of gold in the mid-20th century.
Material & Composition
9ct Gold bonded/overlay with a Bronze core. This is not solid gold or silver, but a hybrid construction consisting of a structural bronze interior for strength, covered by a layer of genuine 9-carat gold.
Finish & Decoration
Polished yellow gold finish, typically featuring a smooth, rounded (D-shape) or rectangular profile. The interior surface of the band is flat to accommodate the stamps.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '(L.W.&G)', '9CT GOLD', 'BRONZE CORE', and '(LAGARMI)'. These are trade stamps rather than official British hallmarks from an assay office, as the item is a composite material and does not meet solid precious metal purity requirements.
Construction Details
Constructed using a 'bronze core' method where a sheet of 9ct gold is mechanically bonded to a bronze base. This prevents the bangle from denting and allows for a substantial look at a lower price point than solid gold.
Functional Features
Slip-on design or hinged (though the image shows a continuous band). The core provides high tensile strength, preventing the warping common in thin-walled hollow bangles.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Bangle bracelet)
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The bonding of the two metals is seamless, showing no peeling or separation, characteristic of the Lagarmi brand's standards.
Authentication Indicators
The stamps are deeply struck and consistent with known L.W.&G pieces. The color of the tarnish in the crevices (dark brown/black) suggests real gold reacting over time, rather than cheap plating.
Origin & Manufacturing
Originates from Birmingham, Great Britain, the historic heart of the UK jewelry manufacturing trade. Produced via industrial bonding and stamping techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1970s). British manufacturing of this style peaked during the post-war period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975. The font style of the 'Lagarmi' and 'Bronze Core' stamps is characteristic of mid-20th-century British mass-produced jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in post-war Britain, providing the middle class with substantial-feeling gold jewelry that could be handed down through generations.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface scratches and slight patina consistent with age. Note potential wear-through of gold on the edges if polished too aggressively, exposing the bronze beneath.
Value Estimate
£50 - £120 ($65 - $150 USD). Value is based on brand name and aesthetic appeal rather than scrap metal content, as the gold content is relatively low.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive silver or gold polishes that might strip the gold layer. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratching other jewelry.
Similar Pieces
Rolled Gold bangles (thinner gold layer), 9ct Solid Hollow Gold bangles (lighter, prone to dents), or Vermeil (silver base).
Interesting Facts
The 'Bronze Core' technique was marketed as 'practically indestructible' compared to the delicate hollow gold bangles of the Victorian/Edwardian eras.