Collection: Bracelets

Vintage Bracelets

Vintage bracelets are captivating accessories that add a touch of history and elegance to any ensemble. Spanning decades of design and craftsmanship, vintage bracelets offer a diverse array of styles, materials, and aesthetics that reflect the trends and cultural influences of their respective eras.

One of the most charming aspects of vintage bracelets is their ability to tell stories. Each piece carries with it a sense of nostalgia and intrigue, evoking memories of bygone times and the individuals who once wore them. From delicate Art Deco bangles to chunky 1980s charm bracelets, vintage bracelets offer a glimpse into the fashion trends and personal tastes of previous generations.

Vintage bracelets often showcase a wide range of materials and techniques, reflecting the craftsmanship and creativity of their makers. Art Deco bracelets, for example, may feature geometric designs crafted from platinum and adorned with sparkling diamonds and colourful gemstones. Mid-century Modernist bracelets, on the other hand, may incorporate abstract forms and experimental materials such as Lucite or resin.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, vintage bracelets also hold historical and cultural significance. They may have been worn to mark important milestones such as weddings, graduations, or anniversaries, serving as tangible reminders of cherished memories and traditions. Some vintage bracelets may even bear hallmarks or maker's marks that provide clues to their origins, adding to their allure and collectibility.

Collecting vintage bracelets can be a rewarding pursuit, offering the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and connect with the past. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of Art Nouveau filigree, the glamour of Art Deco diamonds, or the playful charm of 1960s enamel, vintage bracelets offer something for every taste and style. With each piece carrying its own unique story, wearing vintage bracelets allows us to celebrate the craftsmanship and creativity of generations past while adding a touch of timeless sophistication to our own wardrobes.

Art nouveau braceltes

Art Nouveau jewellery emerged as a revolutionary style in the late 19th century, flourishing until around 1910. This period, characterised by its organic forms, intricate designs, and symbolic motifs, was a reaction against the industrialization and mass production of the Victorian era. Art Nouveau jewelry often incorporated naturalistic elements such as flowing curves, floral motifs, and delicate tendrils, inspired by the shapes and patterns found in nature.

One of the defining features of Art Nouveau jewellery was its use of innovative materials and techniques. Jewellery makers experimented with new materials like enamel, horn, and semi-precious stones, as well as innovative techniques such as plique-à-jour enameling, which created translucent effects reminiscent of stained glass.

Art Nouveau jewelry also embraced symbolism and allegory, with many pieces incorporating motifs inspired by mythology, fantasy, and the occult. Symbolic animals like dragons, serpents, and butterflies were common, as were motifs representing themes of love, transformation, and spirituality.

Leading Art Nouveau jewelry designers included René Lalique, Georges Fouquet, and Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose creations exemplified the movement's emphasis on craftsmanship, innovation, and individuality. These designers created exquisite pieces that blurred the boundaries between jewelry and fine art, elevating jewelry-making to the status of high art.

Despite its relatively short-lived popularity, Art Nouveau jewelry continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today. With its emphasis on natural forms, intricate designs, and symbolic motifs, Art Nouveau jewelry remains a timeless expression of beauty, creativity, and innovation.

Art Nouveau bracelets were exquisite expressions of the movement's emphasis on organic forms, intricate designs, and symbolic motifs. Crafted during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these bracelets often featured flowing lines, delicate curves, and intricate details inspired by nature.

One of the hallmark characteristics of Art Nouveau bracelets was their use of innovative materials and techniques. Jewelry artisans experimented with materials such as enamel, horn, and semi-precious stones, employing techniques like plique-à-jour enameling to create ethereal, translucent effects reminiscent of stained glass.

Art Nouveau bracelets often incorporated symbolic motifs drawn from mythology, fantasy, and nature. Floral motifs such as lilies, irises, and orchids were popular, symbolizing beauty, femininity, and growth. Animal motifs such as butterflies, dragonflies, and serpents were also common, representing themes of transformation, freedom, and mystery.

These bracelets were designed to be both beautiful and meaningful, serving as wearable works of art that expressed the wearer's personality, beliefs, and aspirations. Whether adorned with delicate enamelwork, intricate gemstone settings, or sculptural metalwork, Art Nouveau bracelets were cherished for their craftsmanship, creativity, and symbolic significance.

Today, Art Nouveau bracelets are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their timeless beauty and historical significance. Each piece serves as a captivating reminder of the creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship of the Art Nouveau movement, making them cherished heirlooms and prized additions to any jewelry collection.

Art Deco bracelets- 1920s to 1930s (still influenced into early 1940's)

The Art Deco period spanned from the 1920s to the early 1940s, with its peak popularity occurring during the 1920s and 1930s. This period was characterised by its bold geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and luxurious materials, influencing various aspects of art, design, and architecture. Art Deco emerged as a response to the ornate and elaborate styles of the preceding Art Nouveau movement, emphasising modernity, elegance, and sophistication.

1930s bracelets

Bracelets from the 1930s embody the glamour and sophistication of the Art Deco era. Characterized by geometric designs, bold lines, and luxurious materials, these bracelets exude elegance and opulence. From sleek platinum bangles to sparkling diamond bracelets, each piece reflects the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless style of the period.

During the 1930s, Art Deco design flourished, influencing jewellery styles with its bold geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and luxurious materials. Bracelets from this era often featured intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail, reflecting the elegance and opulence of the time.

One popular style of bracelet during the 1930s was the diamond bracelet. These bracelets typically featured rows of sparkling diamonds set in platinum or white gold, arranged in geometric patterns such as chevrons, circles, or squares. The brilliance of the diamonds, combined with the sleek lines of Art Deco design, created pieces that were both striking and sophisticated.

Another characteristic bracelet style of the 1930s was the enamel bracelet. Enamel, a technique where powdered glass is fused onto metal, was used to create vibrant and colorful designs. Enamel bracelets often featured geometric patterns, floral motifs, or exotic influences such as Egyptian or Oriental themes. These bracelets added a pop of color and whimsy to outfits and were favored by those who embraced the bold and avant-garde style of the Art Deco period.

Bracelets from the 1930s also often incorporated other popular materials of the time, such as jade, coral, onyx, and mother-of-pearl. These materials were used to create striking contrasts against the backdrop of precious metals like gold and platinum, adding depth and richness to bracelet designs.

Overall, bracelets from the 1930s reflect the glamour, sophistication, and innovation of the Art Deco era. With their bold designs, luxurious materials, and impeccable craftsmanship, these bracelets continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today, serving as timeless reminders of one of the most stylish and influential periods in jewelry history.

1940's bracelets

Bracelets from the 1940s reflect the unique historical context of the time. World War II profoundly influenced fashion, leading to a shift towards more practical and economical designs. However, despite wartime restrictions, jewellery designers found ways to infuse pieces with elegance and sophistication.

Art Deco influences continued to shape bracelet designs during the 1940s, with geometric motifs, clean lines, and bold contrasts being prominent features. Materials such as sterling silver, gold, and platinum were commonly used, often accented with gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.

One notable trend during this time was the use of patriotic motifs in jewellery design, reflecting the wartime sentiment. Bracelets adorned with  symbols of national pride were popular, serving as a form of expression and solidarity during a challenging period.

Bracelets from the 1940s also often featured intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail. Despite the constraints of wartime rationing, jewelley makers continued to produce pieces of exceptional quality, showcasing their skill and creativity.

Overall, bracelets from the 1940s are imbued with a sense of resilience, strength, and enduring beauty. They serve as reminders of a tumultuous yet transformative period in history, offering a glimpse into the resilience and spirit of the people who lived through it. 

1950's bracelets

Bracelets from the 1950s exude an air of elegance and sophistication, reflecting the post-war prosperity and refined style of the era. The 1950s were characterised by a return to glamour and femininity after the austerity of the war years, and bracelet styles of the decade embraced classic elegance and timeless beauty.

One of the most iconic bracelet styles of the 1950s was the tennis bracelet. Tennis bracelets, also known as line bracelets, featured a continuous row of small, closely set gemstones, typically diamonds, encircling the wrist. These bracelets were favoured by Hollywood starlets and socialites, who wore them as symbols of status and sophistication. Tennis bracelets epitomised the glamour and elegance of 1950s fashion, adding a touch of sparkle and luxury to evening ensembles.

Another popular bracelet style from the 1950s was the charm bracelet. Charm bracelets continued to be fashionable during this decade, and in fact for many decades after, with wearers customising their bracelets with an array of charms that held personal significance. Charms ranged from whimsical symbols like hearts and horseshoes to more sentimental tokens like initials or birthstones. Charm bracelets were worn as expressions of individuality and were often passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms.

In addition to tennis bracelets and charm bracelets, cuff bracelets also gained popularity during the 1950s. Cuff bracelets were typically made from metal and featured bold and sculptural designs, often embellished with intricate filigree work or enamel detailing. These bracelets were favoured by those who embraced the sleek and sophisticated style of the decade, adding a touch of glamour and refinement to their outfits.

As the 1950s progressed, the influence of the atomic age and space exploration began to shape bracelet styles. Bracelets featuring futuristic designs, geometric shapes, and abstract motifs became popular, reflecting the era's fascination with technology and progress. These avant-garde bracelets added a touch of modernity and innovation to 1950s fashion, capturing the spirit of a decade defined by optimism and possibility.

Overall, bracelets from the 1950s capture the elegance, glamour, and sophistication of the era. Whether adorned with diamonds, charms, or sculptural designs, bracelets from the 1950s reflect the timeless beauty and refined style of one of the most iconic periods in fashion history, and one of my personal favourites.

1960's bracelets

Bracelets from the 1960s encapsulate the revolutionary spirit and vibrant energy of the era. The 1960s were a time of immense social change, cultural upheaval, and artistic innovation, and bracelet styles reflected these shifts in attitudes and aesthetics.

One of the most iconic bracelet styles of the 1960s was the charm bracelet. Charm bracelets gained popularity during this decade as symbols of individuality and self-expression. Wearers could customise their bracelets with an array of charms that represented their interests, hobbies, and beliefs. Charms ranged from playful symbols like peace signs and flowers to more personal tokens like initials or zodiac signs. Charm bracelets were often worn as expressions of identity and were cherished keepsakes passed down through generations.

Another popular bracelet style from the 1960s was the bangle bracelet. Bangles were typically made from metal or plastic and came in a variety of styles, from simple and sleek to bold and ornate. Bangles were often worn in multiples, stacked high on the wrist for a dramatic and eye-catching look. They were favoured by those who embraced the mod and psychedelic fashion trends of the era, adding a touch of glamour and whimsy to their outfits.

In addition to charm bracelets and bangles, beaded bracelets also remained popular throughout the 1960s. Beaded bracelets were often handmade from colourful glass or ceramic beads and featured intricate patterns and designs. They were favoured by those who embraced the bohemian and hippie-inspired fashion of the era, adding a touch of handmade craftsmanship and free-spirited charm to their look.

As the 1960s progressed, the influence of the counterculture and the hippie movement began to shape bracelet styles. Friendship bracelets, made from colourful threads or yarn and woven into intricate patterns, became symbols of camaraderie and solidarity among friends. These handmade bracelets were exchanged as tokens of friendship and worn with pride by those who embraced the ideals of peace, love, and unity.

Overall, bracelets from the 1960s capture the spirit of a decade defined by its optimism, creativity, and quest for freedom. Whether adorned with charms, stacked high with bangles, or woven from colourful threads, bracelets from the 1960s reflect the era's vibrant and eclectic fashion trends, offering a nostalgic glimpse into one of the most dynamic periods in modern history.

1970's bracelets

Bracelets from the 1970s were a reflection of the free-spirited and eclectic fashion trends of the era. The 1970s embraced a bohemian aesthetic characterised by a love of nature, freedom of expression, and a rejection of traditional norms. Bracelets from this decade often incorporated natural materials, vibrant colours, and bold designs, reflecting the era's emphasis on individuality and self-expression.

One iconic bracelet style of the 1970s was the macramé bracelet. Macramé, a form of textile art using knotting techniques, became immensely popular during this time. Macramé bracelets were typically handmade from cotton or hemp cord and featured intricate patterns and designs. These bracelets were favoured by those who embraced the bohemian lifestyle, adding a touch of handmade craftsmanship and earthy charm to their look.

Another popular bracelet style from the 1970s was the beaded bracelet. Beaded bracelets came in a variety of styles, from simple strands of wooden beads to elaborate designs incorporating colourful glass or ceramic beads. These bracelets were often worn in multiples, stacked high on the wrist for a layered and eclectic look. Beaded bracelets were favoured by both men and women and became symbols of the era's laid-back and hippie-inspired fashion.

In addition to macramé and beaded bracelets, charm bracelets also remained popular throughout the 1970s. Charm bracelets allowed wearers to personalise their accessories by adding charms that represented their interests, hobbies, and memories. Charms could range from whimsical symbols like peace signs and flowers to more personal tokens like initials or birthstones. Charm bracelets were worn as expressions of individuality and were often passed down through generations as cherished keepsakes.

As the 1970s progressed, the disco culture of the era also influenced bracelet styles. Sparkling rhinestone bracelets, metallic cuffs, and glittering bangles became popular among those who embraced the glamorous and opulent aesthetic of disco fashion. These bracelets were often worn as statement pieces, adding a touch of sparkle and glamour to evening ensembles.

Overall, bracelets from the 1970s capture the spirit of a decade defined by its love of freedom, creativity, and self-expression. Whether adorned with macramé, beads, or charms, bracelets from the 1970s reflect the era's eclectic and vibrant fashion trends, offering a nostalgic glimpse into another very dynamic periods in modern history.

Bracelets from the 1980s

The 1980s though not strictly yet vintage was a decade known for its bold and expressive fashion, and bracelets were no exception. Bracelets from the 1980s were characterised by their vibrant colours, oversized designs, and eclectic mix of materials. This era embraced excess and self-expression, and bracelets became an essential accessory for making a statement.

One of the most iconic bracelet styles of the 1980s was the charm bracelet. These bracelets were adorned with an assortment of charms, ranging from playful symbols like hearts and stars to miniature representations of popular icons and symbols of the time. Charm bracelets allowed wearers to personalise their accessories, showcasing their interests, hobbies, and memories in a whimsical and colourful way.

Another popular bracelet style from the 1980s was the bangle bracelet. Bangles were often worn in multiples, stacked high on the wrist for a bold and eye-catching look. These bracelets came in a variety of materials, including plastic, enamel, and metal, and were often embellished with bright colours, geometric patterns, and metallic finishes. Bangles were a favourite accessory among fashion-forward trendsetters, adding a touch of drama and flair to any outfit.

In addition to charm bracelets and bangles, friendship bracelets also rose to prominence during the 1980s. These bracelets were typically handmade from colourful threads or yarn, woven into intricate patterns and designs. Friendship bracelets became popular as a way to express camaraderie and solidarity among friends, with wearers often exchanging them as tokens of friendship and affection.

The 1980s also saw a resurgence of interest in costume jewellery, with designers experimenting with unconventional materials and innovative techniques. Bracelets made from Lucite, acrylic, and other synthetic materials became popular, often featuring bold geometric shapes, abstract designs, and playful motifs. These avant-garde bracelets were favoured by fashion-forward trendsetters and became emblematic of the bold and eclectic style of the decade.

Overall, bracelets from the 1980s reflect the era's vibrant and eclectic fashion trends, with an emphasis on self-expression, individuality, and boldness. Whether adorned with charms, stacked high with bangles, or handmade with colourful threads, bracelets from the 1980s capture the spirit of a decade defined by its love of excess and creativity. Today, these 1980s bracelets continue to be cherished by their owners as well as sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts.