Mixed Media Continental/Bohemian Style Charm Bracelet with Silver Componentry
Jewelry (Charm Bracelet) · Unidentified artisan/boutique maker. This piece lacks the characteristics of major silver houses like Tiffany or Georg Jensen, appearing instead to be a contemporary 'fusion' or 'global' style artisan creation typical of high-end boutique or craft-fair production.
Pattern: Eclectic Charm / Found Object Fusion. No specific cataloged pattern name is applicable.
Type
Jewelry (Charm Bracelet)
Maker
Unidentified artisan/boutique maker. This piece lacks the characteristics of major silver houses like Tiffany or Georg Jensen, appearing instead to be a contemporary 'fusion' or 'global' style artisan creation typical of high-end boutique or craft-fair production.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate for the metal components. Mixed media includes leather cord, semi-precious stone beads (turquoise and carnelian/coral tones), glass accents, and fibrous thread wraps.
Dimensions
Standard adult wrist size (approx. 7-8 inches in circumference). Weight is estimated at 30-50 grams, though much of this is attributed to the leather and heavy stone beads rather than pure silver content.
Description
This eclectic and tactile charm bracelet combines the ruggedness of leather with the luster of antiqued silver. It features several cast silver discs modeled after ancient coinage, specifically showing equine figures, interspersed with vibrant semi-precious stones and textured beads. The piece is designed with a layered, found-object aesthetic that suggests a worldly, traveled provenance.
Key Features
Multi-strand leather cord; horse-motif 'ancient coin' repitition; combination of organic fibers and cold metal; adjustable lobster clasp closure.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate for the metal components. Mixed media includes leather cord, semi-precious stone beads (turquoise and carnelian/coral tones), glass accents, and fibrous thread wraps.
Finish & Decoration
Antiqued/Oxidized finish. The silver charms and beads feature a deliberate patina (darkening in the recessed areas) to simulate age. Decorative elements include cast coin-style discs featuring horse/equine motifs, granulated silver beads, and thread-wrapped spacers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No clear hallmarks visible on the outward faces. Common locations for identification would be the back of the coin charms or the small metal tag (fob) near the lobster clasp. If it is high-quality artisan work, look for a tiny '925' or a specific artisan's initials.
Construction Details
Assembled construction. The piece utilizes pre-cast silver charms/beads threaded onto leather cords. Structural integrity is maintained via thread wraps and metal crimps. The charms are attached via small jump rings.
Functional Features
Multicolor leather cord strand base; lobster claw clasp with extender chain for adjustable sizing; dangling charms for movement and sound.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item). The lobster clasp serves as the primary mechanical interface.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality assembly. The thread-wrapping (whipping) shows careful hand-work, and the selection of materials indicates an eye for color and texture balance. The charms are well-cast with clear details.
Authentication Indicators
Authenticity would be verified by '925' stamps on charms or clasps. The metal weight and thermal conductivity (silver feels cold and warms quickly) are physical indicators. The horse charms appear to be cast from molds of genuine ancient coins.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American or European artisan-made. This type of 'mixed media' jewelry is common in boutique shops and high-end craft markets (e.g., Santa Fe style or Mediterranean boutique styles).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Era, late 20th to early 21st century). The design is a 'Bohemian Revival' style that utilizes historical motifs (ancient coins) in a modern silhouette.
Age Estimate
c. 1990-present day. The use of certain bead types and the specific lobster clasp design indicates modern assembly.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Global Citizen' or 'Boho-Chic' movement in fashion jewelry, where historical and natural materials are blended to create a piece that feels personal and handcrafted rather than mass-produced.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The 'worn' appearance of the metal is intentional (patina). Some fraying is visible on the decorative thread wraps, which is common for this style of fiber-heavy jewelry. Structure appears sound.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD. Value is driven by artisan design rather than melt value. If hallmarks reveal a specific noted designer, value could increase to $250+.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in jewelry 'dip' cleaners as the chemicals will destroy the leather, stones, and fiber. Use a silver polishing cloth on the metal parts only. Store in a dry place to prevent leather rot and excess tarnish. Avoid wearing while swimming or showering.
Similar Pieces
Chan Luu wrap bracelets (similar leather/bead style); wax-seal coin jewelry by Pyrrha; Southwestern Navajo-style charm bracelets (which would typically feature more troy weight and hallmark consistency).
Interesting Facts
The coin motifs resemble Greek or Roman coinage, often used in jewelry to symbolize prosperity and connection to classical history. Horses specifically symbolize freedom and power.