Hammered 18K Yellow Gold and Braided Leather Bypass Bracelet
Bracelet, Bypass Bangle with Leather Chord · Yellow Gold with a warm, high-karat hue typical of classic artisanal compositions
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, likely 18K gold plated or vermeil over silver given the visible oxidation and base metal traits
Type
Bracelet, Bypass Bangle with Leather Chord
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold, likely 18K gold plated or vermeil over silver given the visible oxidation and base metal traits
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a warm, high-karat hue typical of classic artisanal compositions
Weight
Estimated total weight of 15-20 grams, with gold components contributing 5-8 grams depending on thickness
Description
An elegant mixed-media bypass bracelet featuring a substantial C-shaped arc of hand-hammered yellow gold. The metal transitions into a sturdy, braided brown leather cord, terminating in a circular bezel-set decorative element. The contrast between the organic texture of the gold and the rustic leather provides a sophisticated, casual luxury aesthetic.
Key Features
Hand-hammered texture, bypass structural design, combination of textured gold and braided leather, and a circular focal point
Color & Finish
Deep golden yellow with a hand-hammered/distressed matte finish; shows signs of patina and darkening in the crevices
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; likely located on the internal flat of the gold terminals or the clasp face
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 7-inch circumference; bangle width approx 4-5mm; centerpiece diameter approx 10mm
Gemstones & Inlays
Single round cabochon or coin-style inlay in a bezel setting, possibly hematite, onyx, or an oxidized silver disk
Clasp & Closure
Bypass/Tension style closure where the leather cord slides through a gold ring or secures via a hidden hook beneath the decorative terminal
Chain & Links
Braided leather cord construction with a square-profile gold arc joined to the leather via capped terminals
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-hammered finish with bezel-set inlay; terminals appear crimped or glued to the leather; high-quality braiding on the cord
Authentication Indicators
The irregular hammering suggests hand-finishing; however, the greyish tint in worn areas suggests it may be gold-plated silver (Vermeil) rather than solid 18K gold
Origin & Maker
Likely European (Italy or Greece) or American boutique designer; mimics high-end artisanal 'Mixed Media' jewelry
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern with Neo-Primitive or Mediterranean artisanal influences (similar to Ippolita or John Hardy styles)
Age Estimate
Circa 2010s to present
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern shift toward 'quiet luxury' where gold is paired with humble materials like leather to be worn as daily fashion rather than just formal adornment
Condition Notes
Good; visible wear on the gold surface with possible plating thinning on edges; leather shows slight fraying near the terminals; moderate oxidation
Value Estimate
If solid 18K: $600-$900; If Gold Vermeil (Plated Silver): $150-$250 based on designer merit and metal weight
Care & Maintenance
Avoid water and moisture to protect the leather from rotting; clean gold parts with a dry soft cloth; do not use ultrasonic cleaners due to the leather component
Similar Items
John Hardy Classic Chain Leather Bracelets, Ippolita Hammered Bangles, or David Yurman Leather Cord bracelets
Interesting Facts
The 'bypass' design dates back to Victorian 'Me and Thee' (Moi et Toi) jewelry, symbolizing the union of two distinct elements in one circle