14K White Gold Sapphire and Cultured Pearl Double-Strand Bracelet
Bracelet (Double-strand cultured pearl link) · White Gold. Likely alloyed with nickel or palladium; the clasp appears to have its original rhodium plating with slight patina.
Purity: 14K (585 fineness). This indicates 58.3% pure gold, alloyed with white metals for durability and color.
Type
Bracelet (Double-strand cultured pearl link)
Purity
14K (585 fineness). This indicates 58.3% pure gold, alloyed with white metals for durability and color.
Gold Type
White Gold. Likely alloyed with nickel or palladium; the clasp appears to have its original rhodium plating with slight patina.
Weight
35-45 grams (Total weight including pearls). The gold component in the clasp is estimated at 3-5 grams.
Description
A classic mid-century double-strand bracelet featuring matched cultured pearls of high luster. The focal point is a masterful 14K white gold clasp designed as a blooming flower, pavé-set with deep navy blue sapphires. The piece represents the peak of mid-20th-century elegance, balancing the softness of organic gems with geometric floral metalwork.
Key Features
Intricate floral textured white gold clasp; double-strand security knots; vivid blue sapphire contrast; well-matched pearl luster and nacre thickness.
Color & Finish
Silver-white hue with a high-polish and textured floral finish. The pearls exhibit a creamy white body color with rose overtones.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the tongue of the box clasp or the reverse of the floral centerpiece. A maker's mark may also be present.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 7-inch length; pearls approximately 6.5-7mm in diameter; clasp centerpiece roughly 20mm in diameter.
Gemstones & Inlays
Features approximately 12 small round-cut blue sapphires totaling ~0.40-0.60 carats; accented by two strands of round cultured salt-water pearls (likely Akoya).
Clasp & Closure
Ornate floral-motif box clasp with a safety tongue and side-hinged mechanism to secure the double strands.
Chain & Links
Non-metal chain; silk-threaded strands with knots between each pearl for security. Gold is restricted to the clasp assembly and end-bars.
Craftsmanship Details
The clasp is likely cast and hand-finished with textured engraving on the petals. Sapphires are prong-set. Pearls are hand-knotted on silk thread.
Authentication Indicators
White gold color consistency; clasp construction quality; sapphire color saturation; pearl nacre depth (indicated by 'glow'); 14K stamp (assumed).
Origin & Maker
Likely of North American or European workshop origin; common design language for high-end boutique jewelers of the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Retro (circa 1950-1970). The floral filigree and clustered gemstone design are characteristic of post-WWII jewelry styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. Calculated based on the clasp's assembly style and the popularity of double-strand cultured pearl sets during this period.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes elegance, purity, and sophistication. Often worn as bridal jewelry or passed down as a 'coming of age' heirloom.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The pearls show consistent luster; the gold clasp shows minor surface scratches; sapphires are intact. Re-stringing may be required if the silk has stretched.
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,200. Value lies primarily in the aesthetic appeal, sapphire quality, and pearl luster rather than the raw gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe pearls with a soft damp cloth after wear; avoid perfumes and hairspray; store in a soft pouch; professional re-stringing every 2-5 years.
Similar Items
Triple-strand Mikimoto bracelets (higher premium); single-strand 18K yellow gold pearl necklaces; modern diamond-accented pearl bangles.
Interesting Facts
Cultured pearls became widely affordable in the 1950s thanks to Kokichi Mikimoto's techniques, leading to the 'pearl strand' becoming a 필수 (essential) accessory for high society.