Vintage Gold-Toned Mixed Media Hinged Cuff Bangle
Bracelet (Hinged Cuff) · Yellow gold-tone base metal alloy with a brass or bronze base.
Purity: Gold-toned fashion jewelry; likely gold-plated or gold-colored base metal. Does not exhibit the luster of solid 14K/18K gold. Purity estimated at 0% gold content (fashion grade).
Type
Bracelet (Hinged Cuff)
Purity
Gold-toned fashion jewelry; likely gold-plated or gold-colored base metal. Does not exhibit the luster of solid 14K/18K gold. Purity estimated at 0% gold content (fashion grade).
Gold Type
Yellow gold-tone base metal alloy with a brass or bronze base.
Weight
Estimated 45-65 grams due to the large surface area and heavy hinged mechanism.
Description
A wide, striking cuff bangle featuring a dual-tone aesthetic. The golden borders are finished with a meticulous braided rope texture that frames a central dark brown textured inlay. The interior is polished to a soft satin finish, providing comfort for the wearer. Its bold proportions suggest a piece intended for evening wear or high-fashion styling.
Key Features
Braided rope edges, spring-loaded hinge, mixed-material central inlay, and wide-profile silhouette.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow gold color with a satin-brushed interior and high-polish textured edging. Features a dark brown textured mesh or lizard-print leather inlay.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically located on the interior surface near the hinge; lack of stamps and presence of visible surface wear suggests non-precious costume jewelry.
Dimensions Estimate
Width: approx. 35-40mm; Diameter: approx. 60-65mm (standard medium fit).
Gemstones & Inlays
Textured dark brown synthetic leather or snakeskin-patterned mesh inlay; no gemstones present.
Clasp & Closure
Spring-loaded tension hinge with a bypass or tongue-and-groove closure characteristic of fashion cuff bracelets.
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid cuff construction with braided rope-textured borders.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction with high-speed mechanical polishing. The braiding is part of the mold rather than hand-worked wire.
Authentication Indicators
The 'brassy' color tone and visible wear patterns (showing base metal beneath) indicate this is not solid gold. Lack of fineness stamps (585, 750) further confirms costume status.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced fashion accessory; origin potentially East Asia or USA-based fashion house.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980s-1990s) Bold Designer style, reminiscent of costume jewelry trends from brands like Monet or Trifari.
Age Estimate
Likely 25-35 years old (circa 1990).
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the late 20th century, where mixed-media jewelry bridged the gap between haute couture and street wear.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Visible surface scratches and slight oxidation (pitting) on the interior gold-toned surface. The inlay appears intact without peeling.
Value Estimate
Resale value: $15 - $40 USD. Negligible melt value as it contains no precious metals.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water/soaps as they can damage the adhesive in the inlay. Keep away from perfumes and hairspray to prevent tarnishing.
Similar Items
Real 14K gold cuffs would be significantly more expensive and stamped; modern alternatives include gold vermeil or stainless steel gold-PVD bracelets.
Interesting Facts
During the 1980s and 90s, 'bold gold' lookalikes were a staple of workforce fashion, popularized by TV shows like Dynasty to project luxury at an accessible price point.