Before the tradition of engagement and wedding rings, there was the engagement gift. Wedding bracelets were a common betrothal tradition in the Victorian era – a groom would gift his future bride one bracelet and then complete the pair on their wedding day! This edgy pair of wedding bangles were handcrafted around 1870 at the height of the Etruscan revival when ancient aesthetics were exquisitely emulated in the finest jewelry. To find them as a complete pair is a rarity in itself, though this pair is extraordinary for the intense patina that works to highlight each bracelet's unique adornments as well as their incredible weight — each bracelet weighs over 2 ounces! 

The patina, or tarnish, is what we call a 'rainbow' patina which develops on gold after over a century of limited or no polishing! This pair's rainbow patina appears to be a dark, even black, outline around and atop the motifs and around each hinge and clasp. If desired, it can be easily removed with a polish, though we've maintained the patina for those who appreciate the remarkable reflection of antiquity. 

Each of these boldly opulent pair of wedding bracelets features five cultured pearls in elevated bezels. They perfectly contrast the patina for a unique, dramatic impact!

• Handmade in 14k gold
• Cultured pearls
• Sold as pair
• 123.9 grams total weight (4.37 ounces)
• Each measures 1 inch wide and 6 1/4 inches around (inner circumference)

Inventory # P16010