Mid-Century Emerald-Cut Crystal Rhinestone Sterling Silver Line Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unknown American or European manufacturer; potentially a Mid-Century costume jewelry brand such as Trifari, Coro, or Eisenberg that frequently used sterling silver during WWII-era metal restrictions.
Pattern: Classic Art Deco-revival Line or 'Tennis' style bracelet with center focal stone.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown American or European manufacturer; potentially a Mid-Century costume jewelry brand such as Trifari, Coro, or Eisenberg that frequently used sterling silver during WWII-era metal restrictions.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) setting with faceted glass rhinestones or crystals; metal appears to be sterling silver based on the oxidation and construction common for this era.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 6.5 to 7.5 inches; central stone is approximately 10mm x 8mm; estimated total weight 10-15 grams.
Description
An elegant sterling silver line bracelet featuring a prominent central emerald-cut crystal. This piece represents the glamour of 'Hollywood Regency' style, utilizing high-quality crystals to mimic fine diamond and platinum jewelry of the period. The articulated links provide a fluid movement on the wrist, typical of fine jewelry assembly.
Key Features
Emerald-cut central focal point; sterling silver articulation; integrated safety chain; prong-set facet-backed crystals.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) setting with faceted glass rhinestones or crystals; metal appears to be sterling silver based on the oxidation and construction common for this era.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish white metal finish with bezel-set stones; featuring a central emerald-cut faceted crystal and a line of round brilliant-cut crystals. The style is a mix of Art Deco geometry and Mid-Century elegance.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '925' on the clasp or the reverse of the central setting. Many pieces from the 1940s-50s also include a maker's mark or 'PAT. PEND' (Patent Pending).
Construction Details
Articulated box or cup links connected via metal pins or hinges to allow flexibility; die-struck settings with prong-set stones.
Functional Features
Fold-over clasp or box clasp with a safety chain attached at the end to prevent loss if the clasp fails.
Handle & Grip Details
Metal safety chain and bar-end piece for easier manipulation and security on the wrist.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cast components with hand-assembled pins and stones; typical of mid-tier luxury costume jewelry where durability and sparkle were prioritized.
Authentication Indicators
Sulfide tarnish consistent with silver; wear on the clasp and link joints; construction technique matches mid-20th-century mass-manufactured silver jewelry.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Providence, RI) or Europe (Pforzheim, Germany or Gablonz, Czechoslovakia), centers known for high-quality silver and rhinestone production.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco to Mid-Century Modern (c. 1940s – early 1960s). The use of sterling silver in rhinestone jewelry was particularly prevalent during WWII (1941-1945) when base metals were diverted to the war effort.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955 based on the focal stone cut and the presence of a safety chain.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war desire for luxury and glamour; these pieces allowed the middle class to emulate the 'old money' diamond jewelry styles seen in cinema.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition; visible tarnish (sulfide deposits) in the crevices of the links; stones appear intact although one or two may have light 'graying' or foil backing deterioration due to moisture. Safety chain is intact. Overall ‘Good’ to ‘Very Good’ vintage condition.
Value Estimate
$45.00 - $125.00 depending on the specific maker's mark and clarity of the stones.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid silver dips as moisture can get trapped behind the stones and ruin the foil backing; store in a dry, anti-tarnish bag.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. line bracelets (which would have finer stones and higher-end box clasps); vintage diamante sterling bracelets by Mazer or Boucher.
Interesting Facts
During WWII, jewelry manufacturers like Trifari were forced to switch from pewter and pot metal to sterling silver, creating a 'Golden Age' of collectible sterling costume jewelry.