Vintage Oroton-Style Gold-Tone Mesh Envelope Clutch with Rhinestone Clasp
Evening Bag/Clutch (Metal Mesh) · Yellow Gold finish; decorative electroplated or bonded yellow hue over costume jewelry base.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely 14K-24K gold-plated over a base metal (brass or aluminum) or a metallic coating.
Type
Evening Bag/Clutch (Metal Mesh)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely 14K-24K gold-plated over a base metal (brass or aluminum) or a metallic coating.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish; decorative electroplated or bonded yellow hue over costume jewelry base.
Weight
350 to 500 grams (inclusive of base metal mesh, lining, and decorative hardware).
Description
A stunning gold-tone metal mesh clutch featuring a classic envelope silhouette. The 'liquid gold' drape of the mesh allows the bag to move fluidly, catching the light with every movement. Centered on the flap is a brilliant vintage rhinestone cluster, adding a touch of Mid-Century glamour. An iconic piece of evening wear that epitomizes late 20th-century luxury fashion.
Key Features
Fluid metal mesh construction (liquid metal effect), envelope flap design, and central costume glass jewel embellishment.
Color & Finish
High-polish bright yellow gold with a liquid-like glisten; mirror finish on individual round mesh scales.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the interior metal frame or a fabric tag; often stamped 'Made in West Germany' or 'Oroton'. No visible purity stamps in image.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 10 inches; Height: 6 inches; Standard oversized evening clutch capacity.
Gemstones & Inlays
Faceted glass rhinestones or crystals in a rectangular/emerald cut center surrounded by smaller citrine-colored stones; prong-set in gold-tone metal.
Clasp & Closure
Magnetic snap or pressure-fit click closure under the jeweled embellishment on the envelope flap.
Chain & Links
Glomesh or mesh-link construction; individual metal tiles interlinked by small metal rings to create a fabric-like drape.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-linked metal tiles; the transition between the flap and body shows precision joining; the jewel setting is standard industrial costume jewelry grade.
Authentication Indicators
Mesh flexibility and weight suggest quality plating rather than light plastic; absence of '14K' or '18K' stamps indicates costume grade.
Origin & Maker
Likely Australian (Oroton) or American (Whiting & Davis) origin; generic high-quality vintage costume accessory.
Era & Period
Modern/Retro; likely 1970s-1980s 'Bold Gold' era, inspired by Whiting & Davis or Oroton designs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975–1985; consistent with the revival of disco-glam accessories and mesh textures.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury, where gold-plated mesh allowed the middle class to emulate the look of solid gold fabric used by high-fashion houses.
Condition Notes
Good condition; mesh appears intact without major missing scales. Some visible creasing in the mesh typical of storage. Hardware shows minor surface wear.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 USD based on brand (if Oroton/W&D) and condition; primarily decorative/collectible value rather than melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals and perfumes; clean gently with a dry, soft microfiber cloth. Store flat or stuffed with tissue to maintain shape and prevent mesh kinks.
Similar Items
Whiting & Davis Heritage mesh bags, Oroton Glomesh clutches, or contemporary Paco Rabanne 1969 chainmail bags.
Interesting Facts
Metal mesh bags became famous during the Flapper era of the 1920s and saw a significant resurgence in the 1970s Studio 54 disco scene.