Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. Graves Sterling Silver 'X' Bracelet
Jewelry (Link Bracelet) · Tiffany & Co., manufactured for the Paloma Picasso collection. Tiffany & Co. is a world-renowned American luxury house founded in 1837, known for setting the US sterling silver standard (.925).
Pattern: Paloma's Graffiti 'X' (or Kiss) collection, originally introduced in the 1980s. It remains one of Tiffany's most iconic and enduring contemporary jewelry lines.
Type
Jewelry (Link Bracelet)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., manufactured for the Paloma Picasso collection. Tiffany & Co. is a world-renowned American luxury house founded in 1837, known for setting the US sterling silver standard (.925).
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece consists of solid cast silver links with no base metal or plating.
Dimensions
Standard bracelet length approximately 7 inches (17.8 cm); width approximately 10-12mm. Estimated weight is between 25 to 35 grams depending on the specific link size.
Description
A classic of modern jewelry design, this bracelet features Paloma Picasso's signature 'X' motif. The sculptural links mimic the artist's handwriting, creating a bold yet feminine aesthetic. It represents the successful fusion of high-fashion jewelry with casual, everyday wearability, making it a cornerstone of Tiffany & Co.'s silver offerings.
Key Features
Signature 'X' (Kiss) link shape; fluid, non-uniform sculptural lines; Paloma Picasso's authentic designer signature stamp; heavy, substantial feel typical of Tiffany solid silver.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece consists of solid cast silver links with no base metal or plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. This minimalist design features the signature 'X' or 'Kiss' motif, characterized by smooth, fluid sculptural lines inspired by street graffiti and personal scribbles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped on the clasp or the reverse of a link with '© Paloma Picasso', 'T & Co.' or 'TIFFANY & CO.', and '925' or 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast individual links, hand-assembled and connected with integrated silver pins/hinges. The piece is finished with a hidden or lobster-style clasp.
Functional Features
Articulated link system for flexibility on the wrist; secure integrated clasp mechanism; rounded edges for comfortable daily wear.
Handle & Grip Details
Links are solid silver; the tactile 'grip' of the bracelet is smooth and ergonomic, designed to roll slightly with wrist movement.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent casting quality with no visible pits or porosity. The finish is consistent throughout the interior of the links, indicating high-level factory hand-buffing.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'X' links; smoothness of the hinge articulation; crispness of the '925' stamp. Counterfeits often have stiff links or 'puffy' casting holes on the reverse.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Tiffany & Co. workshops. Following traditional high-end manufacturing standards for designer boutique jewelry.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Modern Contemporary. Stylistically reflects the 1980s shift toward 'designer' silver jewelry that balanced luxury with street-art sensibilities.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980s-2000s. The design was most prolific in the late 20th century, though it remained in the catalog for decades.
Cultural Significance
Revolutionized the jewelry industry in the 1980s by making sterling silver 'fashionable' and high-status, moving it away from being seen as merely a 'budget' alternative to gold.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirls) consistent with silver wear. No deep gouges or evidence of pin repair. Tarnish is minimal, appearing mostly in the recessed joints.
Value Estimate
$250 - $550 USD depending on the specific thickness/weight of the links and the presence of original packaging.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and Wright's Silver Cream. Store in the original Tiffany Blue suede pouch to prevent oxidation. Avoid exposure to chlorine/swimming pools.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany 'Loving Heart' bracelet (also by Picasso); George Jensen 'Infinity' links; David Yurman 'Chain' collection. These differ in their specific geometric and artistic motifs.
Interesting Facts
Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo Picasso, began her collaboration with Tiffany in 1980. The 'X' motif was inspired by the kissing 'X' at the end of a letter and graffiti she saw on New York City buildings.