Art Deco Black & White Paste Bangle Bracelet

Costume jewelry has been in use since the 1700s with the substitution of glass, paste and base metals for precious gems and metals. Adornment with costume jewelry, at times referred to as “cocktail jewelry” crested during the Jazz Age. Although originally crafted to be worn for a season or two and then subsequently dispatched without a second glance, we have come to appreciate and covet so-called “fashion jewelry”.

Those fashion icons Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel sanctioned mixing costume pieces with those of real gems. We have a classic example here of a period bangle bracelet produced in sterling silver with channel set square pastes in alternating colors of black and white. The entire sterling band is embellished with fine detailed engraving imparting a visual texture. Opens easily and closes securely with a tongue and groove clasp and an attached safety chain.

Measuring 3/16 of an inch in width (0.4 cm) and has an interior circumference of 6-7/8 inches (17.7 cm). In excellent condition, a few small natural gaps between the pastes. Hallmarked “sterling” and all original fittings. Dates to circa 1925.