Greek Archaic Style Cast Silver Multi-Strand Bracelet Connectors
Jewelry (Bracelet Connectors/Spacers) · Attributed to various Greek workshops such as Lalaounis or Fanourakis (style-dependent) or a contemporary artisanal maker specializing in archaeological revival.
Pattern: Archaeological Revival / Archaic Greek Pattern; specifically depicting Hellenistic daily life or Minoan/Mycenaean court scenes.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet Connectors/Spacers)
Maker
Attributed to various Greek workshops such as Lalaounis or Fanourakis (style-dependent) or a contemporary artisanal maker specializing in archaeological revival.
Material
Likely High-Grade Silver (.925 Sterling or .950); solid metal construction without plating, featuring a natural oxidized patina.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm length per plaque; estimated total weight of 15-20 grams for both pieces. Sized for a 3 to 4 strand bead or cord bracelet.
Description
A pair of oval-shaped silver plaques designed as focal points for a multi-strand bracelet. The upper plaque depicts a processional scene with several figures, while the lower plaque features two figures flanking a central architectural or ritual structure. The pieces exhibit a heavy oxidation in the recesses to accentuate the relief.
Key Features
Distinctive bypass or spacer loops; iconic Greek silhouette figures; intentionally aged/distressed surface to provide an 'antique' appearance.
Material & Composition
Likely High-Grade Silver (.925 Sterling or .950); solid metal construction without plating, featuring a natural oxidized patina.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized matte finish with high-relief casting; features repoussé-style imagery of figures in ancient dress. The texture is intentionally 'primitive' to mimic excavated artifacts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible marks on the face; hallmarks likely located on the reverse. Expected marks would include '925' or a Greek delta-shape workshop stamp.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting (Cire perdue) technique. The granulated border and attachment loops are cast as one piece or hard-soldered to the main oval plaques.
Functional Features
Multi-point attachment loops (eyelets) for securing multiple strands of pearls, stones, or silk cords; used as central decorative spacers.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; features four to six functional loops per plaque for jewelry assembly.
Craftsmanship Details
Artisanal casting with hand-finishing. The asymmetry in the figures suggests a hand-carved master mold rather than a computer-generated design.
Authentication Indicators
Loops are consistent with modern jewelry findings rather than ancient ones; wear patterns show little friction between the loops, suggesting light use.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Greece (Athens or Ioannina), known for preserving traditional casting methods and ancient motifs in silver jewelry.
Era & Period
Modern Archaeological Revival (20th Century to Present), drawing stylistic influence from the Archaic and Classical Greek periods (c. 600-400 BCE).
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century (circa 1970-1990) based on the casting grain and loop design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century movement to reclaim national identity through archaeological craft, turning museum artifacts into wearable fashion.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; heavy tarnish (patina) is intentional. Surface displays minor pitting consistent with the casting process. All loops appear intact.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD as loose components; value increases significantly if authenticated to a major house or if fully assembled into a bracelet.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cloth only; do not use silver dips as they will remove the intentional oxidation from the recessed figures, ruining the contrast.
Similar Pieces
Lalaounis 'Minoan' collections or Zolotas heritage pieces. Competitor pieces often use 18k gold rather than silver and have cleaner, more polished finishes.
Interesting Facts
This specific style of jewelry gained massive popularity in the 1960s and 70s as Greek designers like Ilias Lalaounis popularized 'jewelry from the dawn of history.'