Unattributed Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet with Maker's Mark H.W.
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unknown American or British Silversmith utilizing the maker mark H.W.
Pattern: Custom or small-batch studio artisan production without a distinct named commercial pattern.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown American or British Silversmith utilizing the maker mark H.W.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver)
Dimensions
Standard wide cuff bracelet dimensions, estimated width of approximately 2.5 to 3 cm, weight unable to be definitively measured from visual inspection alone but consistent with solid-gauge sheet silver cuffs.
Description
A classic wide sterling silver cuff bracelet featuring a substantial weight and clean architectural form. The interior clearly displays a deeply struck "STERLING" guarantee alongside the artisan maker's mark "H.W.", offering a minimalist yet rugged aesthetic popular in mid-century studio silver work.
Key Features
Clear and deep punch impressions of the word "STERLING" and the maker initials "H.W." set against a slightly textured metal background.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver)
Finish & Decoration
Polished interior and exterior surface with a heavy, textured, or possibly oxidized/patinated background surrounding the stamped hallmarks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamps read "STERLING" followed by the maker's initials "H.W.", struck directly into the interior surface of the metal.
Construction Details
Formed from a heavy gauge sheet of sterling silver, likely cut, shaped, and hammered or bent into a cuff contour with hand-stamped hallmarks.
Functional Features
Open-ended rigid cuff design allowing for slip-on wrist wear with slight adjustable flexing.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a wearable jewelry piece rather than a handled utensil or vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-cut sheet metal construction with cleanly finished edges and deeply struck maker stamps, indicative of solid mid-century studio craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
The traditional block-letter stamping of "STERLING" and the distinct punched initials "H.W." strongly indicate period authenticity, though further acid or XRF testing is recommended to confirm exact silver purity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Great Britain, produced in a small workshop or by an independent studio artisan.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Contemporary Era (c. 1940-1980) based on standard hallmark typographies and studio jewelry trends.
Age Estimate
Circa mid-20th century, approximately 1950-1970.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII rise of independent studio craft jewelry, where wearable art pieces favored bold metal presence over traditional precious gemstone settings.
Condition Notes
Fair to good vintage condition showing expected surface micro-scratches from wear and localized tarnish deposits, with structural integrity appearing strong and uncompromised.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $75 to $200 USD depending on the exact weight in grams, overall condition, and potential attribution to a known specific artisan.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft polishing cloth or specialized silver cream like Wright's Silver Cream, avoiding harsh abrasive dips that could strip the intended patina from the stamped hallmarks. Store in an anti-tarnish bag.
Similar Pieces
Mid-century sterling cuffs by Navajo, Taxco, or contemporary studio silversmiths, differentiated primarily by distinct regional stylistic motifs and specific hallmark styles.
Interesting Facts
Many mid-century independent silversmiths used simple two-letter punch initials, leaving modern collectors the exciting challenge of researching regional guild and maker registries to uncover the true identity behind marks like H.W.