18K Yellow Gold Multi-Strand Cultured Pearl and Gemstone Bracelet
Bracelet (Multi-strand link style) · Yellow gold with a rich, high-karat saturation likely alloyed with silver and copper to maintain a warm aesthetic.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Bracelet (Multi-strand link style)
Purity
18K (750 fineness), consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow gold with a rich, high-karat saturation likely alloyed with silver and copper to maintain a warm aesthetic.
Weight
Estimated 45-60 grams (total weight including pearls and gemstones). The gold weight likely accounts for 15-20 grams.
Description
A luxurious and statement-making three-strand bracelet that marries the classic elegance of pearls with a vibrant array of precious gemstones. The 18K gold spacers provide a rhythmic contrast to the organic shapes of the pearls, while the bezel-set rubies, emeralds, and sapphires add a regal pop of color. This piece is a quintessential example of high-end cocktail jewelry from the late modern era, designed to provide substantial 'wrist presence'.
Key Features
Triple-row alignment, vibrant 'Big Three' gemstone accents (Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds), and marquise-style gold spacers.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow gold with a high-polish finish on the bezels and spacers; natural patina visible in recessed areas near the settings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A rectangular raised plaque on the clasp area appears to show '750' and a maker’s cartouche; possibly Italian or French based on the bezel craftsmanship.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: ~7.25 inches (standard), Width: ~15-18mm across the three strands.
Gemstones & Inlays
Three-strand arrangement featuring white cultured pearls (~5mm round), accented with bezel-set oval sapphires, emeralds, and rubies (~0.30ct each).
Clasp & Closure
Large decorative box clasp or fold-over clasp with a safety catch, featuring gold beadwork or branding stamps.
Chain & Links
Triple-strand construction using gold pin-and-eyelet assemblies and marquise-shaped gold spacers to maintain strand alignment.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-assembled links with individual stone settings; pearls are individually pinned rather than strung on silk, ensuring structural durability for a heavy piece.
Authentication Indicators
The deep yellow hue is consistent with 18k; the precision of the bezel settings and the hallmark plaque on the clasp are typical of genuine luxury goods.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, possibly Italian (Vicenza region) given the high-quality multi-strand assembly and 18K purity choice.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980s-1990s) characterized by the 'Bold Gold' aesthetic and the use of primary-colored cabochon gemstones.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995 based on the style of the bezel settings and the specific luster of the cultured pearls used.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Power Dressing' era of the 1980s where jewelry was used as a significant marker of wealth, status, and feminine authority.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the pearls show consistent luster with minimal nacre wear. Gold shows light surface scratches. One gemstone appears slightly misaligned.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $3,800 USD. Melt value is secondary to the craftmanship and gemstone value in this specific high-jewelry category.
Care & Maintenance
Pearls are organic and soft (2.5-4.5 Mohs). Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and perfumes. Clean with a soft damp cloth only. Store flat to prevent strand stretching.
Similar Items
Bulgari 'Bulgari-Bulgari' gemstone bracelets or Cartier 'Le Baiser du Dragon' multi-strand pieces, though this is a more classical interpretation.
Interesting Facts
The combination of pearls and faceted gemstones was popularized in the 20th century by houses like Chanel and Bulgari to bridge the gap between daytime and evening wear.