Modernist Vermeil Sterling Silver Ginko and Pearl Charm Bracelet
Jewelry - Bracelet · Unknown Contemporary Studio Artist; consistent with the organic modernist styles popularized by mid-to-late 20th-century designers like Elsa Peretti or contemporary artisanal studio silver.
Pattern: Nature-Inspired Botanical Collection; featuring Ginko Biloba leaf and natural baroque pearl motifs.
Type
Jewelry - Bracelet
Maker
Unknown Contemporary Studio Artist; consistent with the organic modernist styles popularized by mid-to-late 20th-century designers like Elsa Peretti or contemporary artisanal studio silver.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver with gold electroplating), featuring organic Baroque Freshwater Pearls and possibly mixed stone elements including coral.
Dimensions
Estimated length 7-7.5 inches (18-19 cm). Weight approximately 12-18 grams depending on the density of the silver leaf casting and pearl size.
Description
An elegant and whimsical charm bracelet featuring a finely textured Ginko Biloba leaf in gold-plated sterling silver. The piece is accented by luminous, irregularly shaped baroque pearls that provide a soft, organic contrast to the structured, brushed finish of the botanical element. The Rolo chain adds a classic feel to an otherwise avant-garde design.
Key Features
The distinctive Ginko leaf motif with fine linear texturing and the high-quality gold plating over a sterling silver base (Vermeil).
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver with gold electroplating), featuring organic Baroque Freshwater Pearls and possibly mixed stone elements including coral.
Finish & Decoration
The silver leaf element features a satin or brushed finish with engraved directional lines to simulate leaf texture. The chain is an 18k gold over .925 silver vermeil with a high-polish Rolo style link.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on a small tag near the clasp or the reverse of the leaf; likely '925' or 'Sterling' along with a stylized maker's symbol or initials.
Construction Details
Assembled construction featuring a cast silver leaf, jump-ring attachments, and a machine-made gold-plated Rolo/Belcher chain. Pearls are likely wire-wrapped or pinned.
Functional Features
Secure jump-ring connections for charms; likely utilizes a lobster claw or spring ring clasp (not visible in detail).
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable to jewelry; however, the textured leaf provides a tactile grip for the wearer.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality casting for the leaf motif; the brushed finish indicates hand-applied texturing rather than a purely molded finish.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the rolo links, the quality of the brushed texture on the leaf, and the weight suggested by the thickness of the silver casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American or European studio production; typical of high-end artisanal jewelry sold in boutiques or museum shops.
Era & Period
Contemporary Modernist (Late 20th Century to Present); reflects the 'Organic Modernism' revival trend.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2015 based on the combination of vermeil plating techniques and the specific organic-shaped baroque pearl popularity.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from heavy, formal jewelry to 'Nature-Identical' designs that celebrate the imperfections of the natural world (Baroque pearls).
Condition Notes
Very Good; the gold plating appears intact with no visible 'bleeding' of silver at the high points. Pearls show good luster with natural surface irregularities.
Value Estimate
$85.00 - $175.00 USD (Market value for designer/boutique vermeil jewelry).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft damp cloth only. Avoid silver dips or abrasive polishes as they will strip the gold vermeil layer. Store in a soft pouch away from other jewelry to prevent scratching the gold surface.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. organic leaf charms, Georg Jensen botanical series, or Michael Michaud botanical jewelry (typically bronze/silver).
Interesting Facts
Ginko Biloba is known as the 'living fossil' and symbolizes longevity and resilience in many cultures, making it a popular motif for 'meaningful' jewelry gifts.