Victorian Style Paste and Sterling Silver Floral Cluster Link Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Likely a European or American workshop specializing in 'Paste' jewelry; often unmarked or Bearing makers like 'W.S. & S' or 'TF' depending on regional origin.
Pattern: Floral Cluster and Laurel Leaf pattern, a popular 19th-century revival motif focusing on botanical symmetry.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Likely a European or American workshop specializing in 'Paste' jewelry; often unmarked or Bearing makers like 'W.S. & S' or 'TF' depending on regional origin.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver-Plate, set with faceted glass 'Paste' stones (simulated diamonds), with a base metal or silver safety chain.
Dimensions
Approximately 7-7.5 inches in length; width of clusters roughly 15-20mm; estimated weight between 25-40 grams.
Description
An elegant articulated bracelet featuring eight sparkling floral clusters. Each cluster is anchored by a central oval paste stone surrounded by marquise and round-cut stones to simulate a blooming flower. The dark patina of the silver enhances the brilliance of the glass stones, mimicking the high-end diamond and platinum jewelry of the Belle Époque.
Key Features
Symmetrical floral clusters, use of foiled or high-quality paste stones, integrated box clasp, and high-degree of articulation.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver-Plate, set with faceted glass 'Paste' stones (simulated diamonds), with a base metal or silver safety chain.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized or antiqued silver finish to provide contrast for the stones; features prong and bezel settings with floral marquise-cut stone arrangements forming petal motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped '925' or 'STERLING' on the tongue of the clasp or the reverse of a link; may have European control marks like the French boar's head or British hallmarks if of UK origin.
Construction Details
Articulated cast links joined by jump rings or integrated hinges; pavé and prong stone setting; includes a box clasp with a secondary safety chain for security.
Functional Features
Mechanical box clasp with a sliding tongue; safety chain to prevent loss; flexible multi-link articulation for wrist comfort.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Jewelry); however, the clasp tongue is fluted for easy thumb-grip during operation.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-set stones in cast settings; the articulation shows good bench-work quality with smooth movement between links.
Authentication Indicators
Checking for '925' stamp on the clasp; inspecting the back of the stones for foil; observing the wear on the jump rings which should show slight oval distortion from use.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a major jewelry hub such as Birmingham (UK), Pforzheim (Germany), or Providence, Rhode Island (USA).
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Edwardian Revival (c. 1890-1915); characterized by 'white metal' jewelry designed to sparkle under limelight or early electric lighting.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1920 based on the stone-cut styles and the box-clasp design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the Industrial Revolution, allowing the burgeoning middle class to own 'diamond-look' evening wear jewelry.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light tarnish consistent with age (patina); all stones appear present though some may show 'yellowing' or 'greying' due to foil backing oxidation; clasp appears functional.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on hallmark clarity and the condition of the stone backings.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water (it ruins the foil backing of stones); clean with a dry silver polishing cloth only; store in a dry place to prevent 'stone rot' or yellowing.
Similar Pieces
Rivière necklaces of the same period; 'Diamonbar' Art Deco bracelets (usually thinner); more modern CZ (Cubic Zirconia) sterling jewelry which lacks the hand-set prongs and patina.
Interesting Facts
Paste stones were not considered 'fakes' in the Victorian era but were a respected craft involving high-lead content glass designed to emulate the refractive index of diamonds.