Starry Nights! Edwardian Sapphire & Diamond Bangle

Remaining in lovely condition, an antique 9ct Gold bangle with an elaborate decoration including star set Gems, applied gold work and twisted edging... all very much of the time and particularly lovely capturing a romantic mood inspired by nature and harmony. 

The front portion is mercury gilded for a gorgeous mattified patina which shows the wonderful applied gold work flowers off to their best, with some elements a gentle rosy hue against this background.. so clever and nowadays entirely forbidden as working with Mercury was always a dangerous process...

As dazzling as mercury gilding was, it had one major drawback.  Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that causes terrible neurological symptoms after prolonged exposure, followed by death.  In fact, the Victorian saying “mad as a hatter” specifically referred to mercury poisoning.  This is because hat makers were routinely exposed to mercury nitrate in the hat making process until the late 19th century.

It closes with a hidden clasp and safety chain.

Metal: 9ct yellow Gold with a Chester Assay Office stamp to the back portion alongside a maker's mark for Samuel Usher of Vyse St who was (registered in 1905 with this particular mark) in Birmingham's famous jewellery quarter. 

Stones: Sapphires and Diamonds are set in beautiful starred settings

Measurements: it will fit an average wrist, internal circumference 7 inches and weighs 11.36g.