Black Electroplated Fashion Bangle with Faceted Crystals
Bracelet (Hinged Bangle) · Blackened/Treated finish; does not exhibit the characteristics of solid gold alloys (yellow, white, rose). Likely gunmetal or lacquer coated base metal.
Purity: Non-gold/Costume; the item appears to be base metal with a dark chrome or black rhodium-style plating. No gold hallmarks are visible.
Type
Bracelet (Hinged Bangle)
Purity
Non-gold/Costume; the item appears to be base metal with a dark chrome or black rhodium-style plating. No gold hallmarks are visible.
Gold Type
Blackened/Treated finish; does not exhibit the characteristics of solid gold alloys (yellow, white, rose). Likely gunmetal or lacquer coated base metal.
Weight
Estimated 40-60 grams; the item appears bulky and likely composed of a heavy base metal alloy like brass or zinc.
Description
A bold, wide-profile hinged bangle featuring a dark, gothic-inspired aesthetic. The exterior is adorned with various sized black and silver-toned simulated stones set against a textured black background. The interior features a honeycomb cutout design, providing a lightweight feel for a substantial look.
Key Features
Wide dome profile, black-on-black color palette, honeycomb interior lattice, and faceted crystal embellishments.
Color & Finish
Black/Gunmetal finish with a high-gloss luster. The surface features a 'pavé' style texture created by cast metal bumps rather than individual stone settings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. The interior lattice structure is typical of mass-produced fashion jewelry where brand marks are often omitted or applied as a small tag.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 2.5 inches internal diameter (standard bangle size); width is roughly 25-30mm at the widest point.
Gemstones & Inlays
Faceted black resin or glass cabochons surrounded by smaller clear/grey crystal glass accents (foil-backed). These are likely glued into place rather than prong-set.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged opening with a hidden box tab or spring-tension closure. The seam is visible on the side of the band.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid hinged band construction with an openwork honeycomb/lattice interior for weight reduction and comfort.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast production; the settings are integrated into the mold rather than being hand-worked. The interior lattice is a classic industrial technique for reducing material costs while maintaining structural rigidity.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold: lack of hallmarks, 'honeycomb' interior (common in cast fashion jewelry), and high-gloss black coating which is rarely applied to high-karat gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-manufactured in East Asia (China or South Korea) for a commercial fashion brand. No specific luxury maker marks are present.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2010s-present); the design reflects modern 'statement' costume jewelry trends commonly found in department store brands.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 5-10 years based on the casting techniques and materials used.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Statement Jewelry' movement of the early 21st century, where bold, oversized accessories became staples in fast fashion.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is slight visible wear on the inner edges of the plating where it meets the skin. All stones appear to be present.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is based entirely on aesthetic fashion appeal; it has no precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all chemicals, perfumes, and water as the black plating will flake or wear away. Clean only with a soft, dry micro-fiber cloth.
Similar Items
Similar to items by brands like Alexis Bittar (fine costume) or Kenneth Jay Lane, but lacks the specific branding of those houses.
Interesting Facts
The 'Black Gold' look in fine jewelry is usually achieved through black rhodium plating or PVD coating over 18K white gold, but in costume jewelry, it is achieved through electroplating base metals.