Circa the 1880’s, this gorgeous 14k rose gold bypass bracelet features ruby and pearl accents. The two ends of the bracelet cross over one another and are held together by three repeating design segments, which house the rubies and pearls.
The bypass bracelet is a notable design commonly used during the Etruscan Revival period, an era of jewelry making that dates to the 1860-80’s. In the early 1800’s there was a large excavation of Etruscan tombs outside of Rome. Within these tombs were pieces of original Etruscan jewelry. The Etruscans were master artisans, and they created breathtaking pieces of jewelry through their use of gold wire and beading. As the news of the excavation of these tombs, and the treasures contained inside them, spread throughout Europe, Etruscan Revival jewelry quickly rose to popularity in the Victorian Era and jewelers created their own versions of these ancient pieces.
The piece has a locking hinge clasp with a push release that still works perfectly. The bracelet is in very good condition, with some age-appropriate minor dents on the inside of the band. The outside of the band remains flawless.
The bracelet measures 6 3/“8 around. The 4 rubies are 3 mm each and the 5 pearls are approximately 2.5 mm each. The bracelet weighs 12 grams and it has been tested to be 14k. The mark “PAT” can be found on the bracelet’s hinge.
