Vintage Gold-Finished Sterling Silver and Cubic Zirconia Line Bracelet (Tennis Bracelet)
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; common to mid-range retail jewelers such as Macy's, Kay Jewelers, or QVC brands like Diamonique. Represents standard 20th-century commercial jewelry manufacturing.
Pattern: Classic 'Tennis Bracelet' or Line Bracelet; a continuous single row of individually set faceted stones in a flexible prong-link setting.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; common to mid-range retail jewelers such as Macy's, Kay Jewelers, or QVC brands like Diamonique. Represents standard 20th-century commercial jewelry manufacturing.
Material
Typically 925 Sterling Silver base metal as indicated by the tarnishing pattern, finished with a yellow gold vermeil or plating. Stones are likely Cubic Zirconia (CZ) or glass crystals rather than diamonds, given the mounting style and visible oxidation.
Dimensions
Standard length is approximately 7 inches (17.8 cm). Estimated weight including stones is approximately 10-15 grams. Individual stones appear to be roughly 3mm (0.10 carat equivalent size).
Description
A classic example of a silver line bracelet, commonly referred to as a tennis bracelet. It features a rhythmic row of faceted simulated diamonds in golden settings. Once a staple of evening wear and later popularized for casual daily wear, this piece combines the luster of gold with the affordability of sterling silver and synthetic stones.
Key Features
Continuous line of stones; four-prong 'basket' settings; flexible movement; yellow gold over silver composition.
Material & Composition
Typically 925 Sterling Silver base metal as indicated by the tarnishing pattern, finished with a yellow gold vermeil or plating. Stones are likely Cubic Zirconia (CZ) or glass crystals rather than diamonds, given the mounting style and visible oxidation.
Finish & Decoration
Polished yellow gold plate over silver. The stones are round brilliant cuts held in four-prong basket settings with articulated links for flexibility.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the clasp (which is missing/detached in this view). May also feature a small maker's mark or 'CZ' stamp on the interior of the basket links.
Construction Details
Machine-cast articulated links. Each basket link is connected to the next by a small pin or jump-ring system to allow the bracelet to wrap around the wrist smoothly.
Functional Features
Articulated links for movement; originally featured a tongue-and-groove clasp with a safety catch (currently broken/detached from the main strand).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a jewelry item; the clasp acts as the primary mechanical interface. The current state shows a clean break at a link junction.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial grade. The prongs are machine-set; the links are uniform and produced through high-volume casting. Solder points are visible at the break, showing typical industrial assembly.
Authentication Indicators
The grey/black tarnish is characteristic of silver (925) rather than base metal brass (which turns green). The break reveals the internal link structure consistent with cast jewelry.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a major jewelry hub such as Thailand, China, or Italy, which are primary exporters of gold-plated sterling silver CZ jewelry for the Western market.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (post-1970s). The 'Tennis Bracelet' gained immense popularity after Chris Evert dropped hers during the 1987 US Open; this design is a classic 1980s-1990s iteration.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The style is timeless but the specific wear pattern on the gold plating and the mechanical failure suggest 15-30 years of age.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury, where 'diamond-look' jewelry became accessible to the middle class through the use of sterling silver and cubic zirconia.
Condition Notes
Poor/Damaged. The bracelet is structurally compromised with a significant break in the strand. There is noticeable tarnish (sulfidation) on the silver beneath the gold plating, and the gold finish is wearing thin on high-contact points.
Value Estimate
$20 - $55 USD. Value is mostly in the silver content and design; the cubic zirconia has negligible resale value, and the break significantly reduces the price unless repaired.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water; avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the gold plating. Store in a dry, airtight bag at room temperature. Requires a jeweler to laser-solder the broken link to restore wearability.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Victoria bracelet (higher end, platinum/diamonds); Swarovski Tennis Deluxe (crystal/rhodium plate); various 'Diamonique' or 'Absolute' branded items from television shopping networks.
Interesting Facts
The 'Tennis Bracelet' name was coined after Chris Evert's diamond bracelet flew off during a match; she requested the match be paused to find it, causing a massive surge in consumer demand for the style.