Vintage Gold-Plated Hinged Bangle Bracelet with Black Inlay
Bracelet (Hinged Bangle) · Yellow Gold finish. The exterior color is a pale lemon yellow, consistent with electroplated 10K-14K yellow gold alloys used in costume jewelry.
Purity: Gold-Plated/Fashion Jewelry grade. It shows significant evidence of base metal exposure (pitting and green oxidation), suggesting it is not solid gold but a thin gold plating over a copper-based alloy or brass.
Type
Bracelet (Hinged Bangle)
Purity
Gold-Plated/Fashion Jewelry grade. It shows significant evidence of base metal exposure (pitting and green oxidation), suggesting it is not solid gold but a thin gold plating over a copper-based alloy or brass.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish. The exterior color is a pale lemon yellow, consistent with electroplated 10K-14K yellow gold alloys used in costume jewelry.
Weight
40-60 grams. The wide profile and thick walls suggest a heavy base metal core like brass or zinc alloy rather than a lightweight solid gold construction.
Description
This wide, statement-making hinged bangle features a striking contrast between its gold-toned borders and a textured black central band. The borders are accented with a repeating beaded or 'millgrain' style pattern that adds subtle shimmer when worn. The interior reveals a utilitarian finish typical of vintage costume pieces, featuring a sturdy hinge that allows for easy application to the wrist.
Key Features
Wide cuff profile, textured black basket-weave inlay, beaded gold-tone edges, and heavy-duty concealed hinge mechanism.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow gold color with a high-polish beaded edge. The central inlay is a textured, diamond-patterned matte black material (likely enamel, resin, or treated fabric). The interior shows a dull, pitted satin finish with visible oxidation/patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible in the provided image. If hallmarks were present, they would likely be found on the interior near the hinge or clasp, but the current surface condition suggests an absence of precious metal quality stamps.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 1.5 inches (38mm) in width; interior diameter roughly 2.4 inches (60-62mm), standard size medium.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The central decorative element is a black synthetic or enamel inlay with a cross-hatch/basket-weave texture.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged opening with a hidden box clasp or pressure tongue. A visible vertical seam indicates a spring-tensioned hinge mechanism common in mid-century costume jewelry.
Chain & Links
N/A. Solid band construction with a 'D-shape' or convex exterior profile and a flat interior.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction with electroplated finish. The inlay is bonded to the core. Soldering at the hinge is machine-standard, with visible wear at the mechanical friction points.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flags: Visible green oxidation (verdigris) indicates a copper-alloy base metal rather than solid gold. The surface wear shows a color change from yellow to dull grey/brown, which is a classic indicator of gold plating wearing off.
Origin & Maker
Unknown. Likely a mass-market fashion brand from East Asia or a department store private label, given the lack of distinctive jeweler hallmarks.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (late 20th century). The design mimics Art Deco styles but the construction and oxidation patterns are consistent with mass-produced fashion jewelry from the 1970s through the 1990s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2000. Texture and plating wear patterns are consistent with 20-40 years of intermittent use.
Cultural Significance
Statement bangles of this width were iconic symbols of 1980s 'Power Dressing,' designed to be highly visible and convey a sense of bold, geometric fashion.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant 'brassing' and oxidation (green verdigris) are visible along the inner edges and hinge seam. The interior surface shows pitting and loss of plating. The exterior inlay appears intact.
Value Estimate
$10–$25 USD. The value is strictly in its aesthetic as a vintage fashion accessory; it has no precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and perfumes, as the base metal is already oxidizing. Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical jewelry cleaners, as they will further strip the remaining gold plating.
Similar Items
Chanel Vintage Resin Bangles, Kenneth Jay Lane Costume Cuff, or 14K Gold and Onyx Hinged Bangle (which would be significantly lighter and have high-clarity stamps).
Interesting Facts
The 'black and gold' aesthetic was popularized in the 1980s by designers like Chanel, leading to a massive surge in mass-produced costume pieces that used textured resins and enamels to mimic expensive onyx or vulcanite inlays.