Vermeil Sterling Silver Onyx Link Bracelet with 'X' Motif
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Indistinguishable from image but likely a commercial jewelry manufacturer (e.g., QVC, Ross-Simons, or similar retail jeweler). These pieces were popular in the late 20th century.
Pattern: Classic 'X and O' or 'Hugs and Kisses' variation with gemstone accents.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Indistinguishable from image but likely a commercial jewelry manufacturer (e.g., QVC, Ross-Simons, or similar retail jeweler). These pieces were popular in the late 20th century.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver with gold plating); likely .925 purity silver base with 10k-14k gold electroplate; Features inlaid or cabochon-cut black onyx stones.
Dimensions
Standard ladies' length (approx. 7 to 7.5 inches); width approx. 5-7mm; estimated weight 8-12 grams depending on hollow vs. solid cast links.
Description
An elegant every-day vermeil bracelet featuring alternating links of polished gold-over-silver 'X' icons and deep black onyx stones. The design offers a high-contrast aesthetic, mimicking 'fine' jewelry through more accessible materials. Its flexible construction allows it to drape comfortably on the wrist, making it a staple of late-century jewelry wardrobes.
Key Features
The repeating 'X' motif and the use of black onyx; the integrated box clasp with safety latch; the distinct yellow gold tone characteristic of vermeil plating.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver with gold plating); likely .925 purity silver base with 10k-14k gold electroplate; Features inlaid or cabochon-cut black onyx stones.
Finish & Decoration
Polished yellow gold finish over silver; Alternating polished 'X' links and oval-set onyx stones; Modern commercial cast aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect a '925' or 'Sterling' stamp alongside a maker's mark or country of origin (often 'CHINA' or 'ITALY') on the underside of the clasp or the final link.
Construction Details
Machine-cast articulated links; pin-and-hinge assembly; stones are likely glue-set or held by small tab-prongs within the gallery.
Functional Features
Box clasp with a single or double figure-eight safety catch for secure closure.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Jewelry item).
Craftsmanship Details
Highly consistent machine-manufactured quality; clean finishing on the clasp; standard production-line casting and assembly.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp on the clasp is the primary indicator of the silver base; the weight-to-size ratio and the presence of safety catches are consistent with mid-range retail jewelry.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a major jewelry hub such as Thailand, China, or Italy for the international retail market.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th Century, approx. 1980s-2000s); indicative of mass-market luxury jewelry trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010 based on the clasp style and the specific 'X' motif trend.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury, where vermeil allowed consumers to achieve a 'solid gold look' at a silver price point during the rise of home shopping and mall jewelry stores.
Condition Notes
Good condition; showing minor gold plating wear (thinning) on high-friction areas like the edges of the links; clasp appears functional; stones appear intact with no visible cracks.
Value Estimate
$40.00 - $85.00 USD (secondary market/resale price); value is largely based on the silver weight and brand popularity rather than the stones.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical 'dips' which strip gold plating; clean only with a soft damp cloth or silver polishing cloth used very gently; store in a soft pouch to prevent scratching the onyx.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Paloma Picasso Loving Heart' designs (higher end); generic gold-plated brass 'X' bracelets (lower end/costume).
Interesting Facts
The 'X and O' jewelry motif became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s, symbolizing affection, and was produced in every material from plastic to platinum.