Vintage 14K White Gold Sapphire Floral Clasp Pearl Bracelet
Bracelet (Double-strand Pearl with Decorative Gold Clasp) · White Gold, likely alloyed with nickel or palladium, showing a cool silvery-white tone.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold), a standard for vintage pearl clasps offering durability for structural mechanisms.
Type
Bracelet (Double-strand Pearl with Decorative Gold Clasp)
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold), a standard for vintage pearl clasps offering durability for structural mechanisms.
Gold Type
White Gold, likely alloyed with nickel or palladium, showing a cool silvery-white tone.
Weight
Estimated gold weight 3-5 grams for the clasp; total item weight approx 30-40 grams including pearls.
Description
A sophisticated double-strand cultured pearl bracelet featuring a stunning 14K white gold clasp designed as a blooming flower. Each petal is meticulously rendered in white gold, centering around a rich cluster of indigo sapphires. The pearls exhibit a creamy luster with rose overtones, demonstrating the classic elegance of mid-20th-century luxury jewelry.
Key Features
Hand-set sapphire cluster, intricate floral filigree clasp, and high-quality individual knotting for pearl security.
Color & Finish
Cool white metallic luster with a high-polished finish on the floral details and a slightly aged patina in recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the tongue or side of the box clasp; no visible maker marks in the image.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx 7-7.5 inches in length; pearls appear to be 6.5-7mm; clasp diameter approx 15mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
A cluster of approximately 10-12 round-cut blue sapphires set in a floral-motif prong setting.
Clasp & Closure
Box clasp mechanism with a safety tongue and a decorative floral sapphire-set faceplate.
Chain & Links
Double strand of cultured pearls individually knotted on silk thread; gold attachment gimp (bullion) loops.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast white gold floral component with hand-set gemstones; pearls are hand-knotted on silk thread for drape and protection.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency of the white gold; crispness of the prong work; typical wear patterns on the clasp tongue.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in the United States or Japan; mass-produced by boutique jewelers or pearl houses.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s), characterized by floral feminine designs and the popularity of pearl sets.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the style of the floral motif and the sapphire setting technique.
Cultural Significance
Pearl bracelets with ornate clasps were standard heirloom gifts for debutantes and brides in the mid-century Western world.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the clasp appears functional though gold shows minor surface scratches; pearls show uniform luster; silk thread may require restringing.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail $800 - $1,200; melt value of gold is low (~$150), value lies in pearls and jewelry craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaners; clean clasp with a soft cloth; strings should be replaced every 5 years.
Similar Items
Tiffany & Co. vintage pearl bracelets or yellow gold floral clasps; 18K versions with diamonds instead of sapphires.
Interesting Facts
The 'safety' box clasp was a significant innovation in the early 20th century to prevent the loss of expensive pearl strands.