Vintage Oroton-Style 14K Yellow Gold Mesh Tile Purse or Accessory
Jewelry Accessory / Evening Bag / Mesh Panel · Yellow Gold finish with warm, brassy undertones
Purity: Likely 14K (585/1000) or 18K (750/1000) high-quality gold plating over brass (Gold Oré or Gold Tone)
Type
Jewelry Accessory / Evening Bag / Mesh Panel
Purity
Likely 14K (585/1000) or 18K (750/1000) high-quality gold plating over brass (Gold Oré or Gold Tone)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish with warm, brassy undertones
Weight
40 - 150 grams depending on overall size of the accessory
Description
A stunning and fluid gold-toned mesh textile composed of interlocking beveled discs that catch light from every angle. This liquid-like material was popularized in high-fashion evening wear and accessories for its ability to mimic the drape of silk in solid metal.
Key Features
Individual beveled circular tiles ('glomesh'), exceptional fluidity, and high-shine reflective surfaces
Color & Finish
Deep golden yellow with a high-polish mirror finish on individual round tiles
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically found on the interior frame or clasp; look for 'OROTON', 'WHITING & DAVIS', or '14K'
Dimensions Estimate
Each tile is approximately 3mm-5mm; overall drape suggests a medium-sized hand accessory
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; decorative emphasis is entirely on the fluid metal texture
Clasp & Closure
Usually features a kiss-lock frame or a heavy internal snap closure
Chain & Links
Ring-link mesh construction where tiny metal rings connect the back of each tile
Craftsmanship Details
Precision assembly of hundreds of individual discs via a secondary lattice of tiny jump rings; requires significant labor for flexibility
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of tiles, lack of 'green' verdigris which indicates high-quality plating or solid alloy, and consistent link tension
Origin & Maker
Likely Australia (Oroton) or USA (Whiting & Davis) style, or high-end Italian mesh work
Era & Period
Modernist / Disco Era / Mid-Century (Reflective of late 1960s to mid-1970s design)
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1980 based on the tile shape and high-density link pattern
Cultural Significance
A symbol of disco-era glamour and high-society nightlife, often associated with Studio 54 aesthetics
Condition Notes
Very Good; some minor surface scratches and light oxidization in the recessed ring links
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 if high-quality gold plating; $2,500+ if confirmed solid 14K/18K gold mesh
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid snagging tiles on knit fabrics; do not use abrasive dips
Similar Items
Whiting & Davis flat-mesh bags, Oroton Glomesh wallets, Paco Rabanne chainmail garments
Interesting Facts
Metal mesh of this type was inspired by medieval chainmail but was re-engineered as a luxury textile for the 20th-century fashion elite.