Vintage Sterling Silver Figaro Chain Charm Bracelet with Custom Date Disc
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unknown mass-market silversmith; typical of mid-20th century American costume or souvenir jewelry manufacturers such as Speidel or Coro, though the lack of visible branding suggests a private jeweler or generic manufacturer.
Pattern: Figaro (3+1) Link Pattern; a classic jewelry design featuring alternating long oval links and short round links, popularized in Italy and widely adopted globally.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown mass-market silversmith; typical of mid-20th century American costume or souvenir jewelry manufacturers such as Speidel or Coro, though the lack of visible branding suggests a private jeweler or generic manufacturer.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the oxidation color and link style. Non-silver possibilities include silver-plated nickel or stainless steel, though the charm shows tarnish consistent with silver alloy.
Dimensions
Estimated 7 to 7.5 inches in length. Approximately 5-8 grams. The charm is roughly 15mm in diameter.
Description
This personal sterling silver bracelet features a lightweight Figaro style chain ending in a circular commemorative charm. The charm is engraved with '64-65', potentially representing a school year, a sports season, or a specific military deployment period, with '113' acting as a serial or unit identification number. It is a classic example of mid-century sentimental jewelry.
Key Features
Distinctive Figaro 3:1 link pattern; custom-engraved identification pendant; spring-loaded security clasp.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the oxidation color and link style. Non-silver possibilities include silver-plated nickel or stainless steel, though the charm shows tarnish consistent with silver alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with natural oxidation (tarnish). The charm is a flat, stamped disc featuring recessed numeric engraving: "64-65" over "113". Minimalist, utilitarian aesthetic typical of personal commemorative items.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not clearly visible in the image but would typically be found on the spring ring clasp or the small jump ring connecting the charm, likely stamped "925" or "STERLING".
Construction Details
Machine-made chain links with a manually assembled jump ring and spring ring clasp. The disc is a die-cut blank with machine-stamped or pantograph-engraved numbers.
Functional Features
Includes a functional spring ring clasp for closure and a jump ring attachment for the pendant charm. The chain allows for additional charms to be added.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; jewelry item. Clasp mechanism serves as the primary manual interface.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced jewelry craftsmanship. The links are uniform and well-joined, indicating reliable industrial production rather than artisan hand-forging.
Authentication Indicators
The tarnish pattern is typical for .925 silver. The construction of the Figaro links and the style of the spring ring are consistent with mid-1960s manufacturing standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States origin. This style of charm bracelet was a staple of American jewelry stores during the 1960s as casual gifts for students or sweethearts.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-20th Century (Post-1960). The "64-65" likely refers to the years 1964 and 1965.
Age Estimate
Circa 1964-1966. The engraved numbers strongly suggest a production date coinciding with the years mentioned on the tag.
Cultural Significance
In the 1960s, these bracelets served as 'social scrapbooks,' allowing the wearer to display personal milestones, affiliations, and dates through custom charms.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface tarnish (oxidation) is present, particularly in the recessed areas of the links and engraving. Moderate surface scratching on the disc charm from wear against skin or clothing.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD. Value is primary in the silver scrap weight and the sentimental/niche interest of the specific engraving.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polishing cloth to restore luster. Avoid liquid dips which can strip the character of the engraving's oxidation. Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent further tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Heart Tag Bracelet (modern luxury alternative with heavier links); Vintage James Avery charm bracelets (bolder, hand-finished aesthetic).
Interesting Facts
Charm bracelets surged in popularity after WWII. The numbers '113' on this piece may refer to a specific classroom, a troop number, or perhaps a player number from an athletic team during the 1964-65 season.