18K Yellow Gold Medusa Greek Key Bypass Bangle
Bracelet (Hinged Bypass Bangle) · Yellow Gold (classic rich warm tone)
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); contains approximately 75% pure gold alloyed with copper and silver
Type
Bracelet (Hinged Bypass Bangle)
Purity
18K (750 fineness); contains approximately 75% pure gold alloyed with copper and silver
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (classic rich warm tone)
Weight
12.0 - 15.0 grams (hollow tube construction with solid decorative terminals)
Description
A sophisticated 18K yellow gold bypass bangle featuring a dual-motif terminal design. One side ends in a matte-finish gold sphere, while the other features a detailed Medusa head emblem framed by a classic Greek Key border. The piece balances bold iconography with high-polished elegance.
Key Features
Bypass design terminals, contrasting diamond-cut/sandblasted textures, and historical Meander pattern motifs
Color & Finish
Two-tone finish: high-polish mirror finish on the band, sandblasted matte finish on the sphere, and black enamel/rhodium contrast on the Medusa emblem
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '750' or '18K' on the inner hinge or tongue clasp; may contain Italian assay marks (star/number/province)
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 60mm internal diameter (Standard size), band width 3mm, Medusa medallion 15mm diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features black enamel inlay in the Greek Key (Meander) border
Clasp & Closure
Hinged tongue-and-groove box clasp with a bottom safety spring for added security
Chain & Links
Tubular rigid cuff construction; features a mechanical hinge at the bottom for easy wrist entry
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed tubular gold; precision laser-etched Greek Key borders; hand-applied matte texturing on the ball terminal
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of 18K gold color; precision of the Greek Key pattern; weight-to-volume ratio suggests quality Italian hollow-form milling
Origin & Maker
Likely Italian manufacturing; design inspired by Gianni Versace aesthetic, although authenticity as 'Versace' brand requires specific logo stamps not visible
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present) inspired by 1980s Italian Neo-Classical revival
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2023 based on laser-cut precision and modern clasp design
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Italian Style' of the late 20th century which prioritized bold yellow gold and Greco-Roman architecture in luxury fashion
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent; minor surface micro-scratches on polished areas; enamel is intact and hinges are tight
Value Estimate
$1,100 - $1,600 (approx. $850 gold melt value + 30-80% craftsmanship/design premium)
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals; clean with a soft polishing cloth; do not use ultrasonic cleaners as it may damage the black enamel inlay
Similar Items
Versace 'La Medusa' bangles; David Yurman bypass bracelets; Greek-made 22K 'Meander' gold cuffs
Interesting Facts
The Medusa head was famously chosen by Gianni Versace because she made people fall in love with her and they had no way back; it symbolizes fatal attraction and classicism