Antique, French, Diamond Set Bamboo Bangle in Original Box

This is one of the nicest bracelets we have ever had in our collection and are proud to offer it to Brisbane, and the world. The piece dates to the late 19th century and was made in France by someone who was clearly a very talented goldsmith. Crafted from 18 karat yellow gold the bangle has been beautifully rendered to mimic a piece of bamboo, and is finely hammered and engraved to give the most realistic effect. The front half of the bangle has been enhanced with applied silver bamboo leaves which are set with 27 rose cut diamonds that have been grain set. The diamonds are estimated to be each of H colour and SI clarity totalling 0.15 carat, and all appear original to the bangle. The silver bamboo leaves have been exquisitely bolted onto the piece with their concealed bolts set flush to the back side of the bangle. The oval bangle secures to the arm with a concealed tongue and box clasp that is working well and has been so beautifully crafted it is nearly invisible unless pointed out. The tongue of the clasp presents four very small French hallmarks, two of which are for the maker and two are related to the purity of the metal. Unfortunately whilst the maker's marks are very clearly marked, we have been unable to identify the maker which is often the case with French jewellery. In terms of the metal purity marks, one is the French eagle indicating 18 karat gold, the other is the French boar indicating 800 out of 1000 parts pure silver (for the bamboo leaves). The bangle presents in exceptionally good condition with very very minor signs of wear and use associated with a piece of this age. The original retailing box is included with the piece, and whilst it is unlikely that the jeweller in Dunkirk manufactured the bangle, it is a beautiful addition to an incredible piece of antique French jewellery.

Marked - unidentified French maker's mark & two French metal purity marks

Measures - 5.6cm W x 5cm D (internal measurements) 

Total diamond weight - 0.15 carat

Total weight of piece - 31.61 grams

Includes independent 'identification report' outlining details of diamonds and gold