Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Wide Concave Hammered Bangle
Bracelet (Cuff/Bangle style) · Yellow Gold, possessing a rich, warm saturation consistent with high gold content alloys.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold with 25% alloy metals.
Type
Bracelet (Cuff/Bangle style)
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold with 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, possessing a rich, warm saturation consistent with high gold content alloys.
Weight
25 - 45 grams, appearing to be a heavy, semi-solid or thick-gauge sheet construction.
Description
An impressive, wide-profile yellow gold bangle featuring a striking concave design. The outer surface exhibits a sophisticated hammered texture that catches light from multiple angles, while the interior curve maintains a smooth, high-luster gold finish. This piece exemplifies the 'Bold Gold' movement with its substantial presence and architectural silhouette.
Key Features
Distinctive concave structural shape, artisanal hammered surface, and thick-wall construction that suggests durability and luxury.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow with a soft satin-matte and hammered surface finish; light surface patina visible on the interior curve.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the current view; typically located on the inner flat surface or near the edge/clasp (750 or 18K).
Dimensions Estimate
Width of 15mm-20mm; standard inner diameter of 60mm-65mm for adult medium fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the design relies on the textural interplay of the gold surface and the concave silhouette.
Clasp & Closure
Appears to be a solid slip-on bangle or a tension-fit cuff, lacking a mechanical hinge in the visible section.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid band construction with a concave interior profile and sharp, consistent edge borders.
Craftsmanship Details
Constructed from thick gold sheet metal formed into a curve with rolled or precisely finished edges; hammered detail appears hand-applied rather than machine-stamped.
Authentication Indicators
Color depth is consistent with 18K alloy; absence of base metal 'bleeding' at the edges; heavy appearance suggests solid/thick-sheet metal rather than electroforming.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, possibly Italian (Arezzo or Vicenza region) given the high-quality finish and 18K yellow gold preference.
Era & Period
Late Mid-Century Modern to 1980s Retro, indicated by the 'Bold Gold' aesthetic and architectural concave form.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990, based on the brutalist-adjacent hammered texture and wide-band style.
Cultural Significance
Bold gold bangles served as quintessential status symbols for professional women in the late 20th century, representing financial independence and fashion-forward sensibilities.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; visible surface scuffs and minor oxidation/tarnish in the recessed areas (patina), consistent with age and wear.
Value Estimate
Estimated at $2,000 - $3,500 based on gold spot prices and a 20-40% premium for vintage design and craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; use a gold polishing cloth for the high areas; store in a separate pouch to avoid scratching the large surface area.
Similar Items
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Bone Cuff (usually convex); brushed 14K alternative (paler color); brass fashion cuffs (lighter weight/different oxidation).
Interesting Facts
Concave jewelry designs are notoriously difficult to hand-finish because traditional polishing wheels cannot reach into the deep curves easily, often requiring specialized manual finishing.