✅ SOLVED Solid 18K Gold and its Victorian - but what is it?

[randazzo1]

Solid 18K Gold and it's Victorian - but what is it?

Can't figure this one out. Its solid gold (about 18K) and has typical victorian black enamel work. There are also two small pearls set it in it. It consists of a ring (kind of like a wedding ring) attached to a chain that is then attached to an adjustable mesh band. The band has fringed gold chains that keep it from slipping out of its clasp. Very odd. It weighs about 9 grams.

For size reference - see my index finger.

Here were some thoughts. It could be a lizard or bird leash - this sounded crazy to me, but apparently some wealthy woman used to carry around lizards and birds from the far reaches of the British empire to demonstrate wealth and taste. It could be a special two piece ring.

Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Even as to age, style etc. Purchased it in an auction lot for almost nothing.

Thanks in advance for your insights. Rudyard.

 

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[randazzo1]

There isn't a screw on top.

 

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[randazzo1]

Breezie - I've been searching for the combo you mentioned - ring / bracelet. Take a look at this - it looks like the same thing, except they don't know what it is either except "a smaller version" Aspire Auctions - 801. A Victorian Gold G

 

[DCMatt]

How did I miss this one? What a nice piece!

It's called a slave bracelet. So tiny, though! I've seen similar dated as 1870 - 80.

Google "Victorian slave bracelet" and you'll see many examples of the "wrist & ring" style.

DCMatt

 

[DCMatt]

Victorian mesh baby braclet - circa 1880



DCMatt

 

[Breezie]

Breezie - I've been searching for the combo you mentioned - ring / bracelet. Take a look at this - it looks like the same thing, except they don't know what it is either except "a smaller version" Aspire Auctions - 801. A Victorian Gold G

Randazzo, what you have is called a Garter Bracelet with Ring. Let me give you some history, and you'll know why and how it got its name. Queen Victorian became Queen in 1837 at only 18 years old. She married her cousin, Prince Albert. When Albert died, Victoria went into extremely deep mouring, and never really got over his death. She became prudish and odd is many ways.

As the sovereign ruler, she was head of the Knights of the Garter, which was the HIGHEST order of Knighthood in GB. Membership was limited to certain Knights and their lady companions. Members wore a garter over the left knee and could be visible when riding a horse. Queen Victoria being the prude that she was, could NOT under any circumstances think a woman would show her legs; therefore, she wore the garter on her wrist. This became 'the' fashion for ladies at that time. Even miniature versions were made for little girls.

As I stated above, all people were smaller 100 years ago, so the size of the garter bracelet could have fit a Victorian woman. Depending on the length of her hand, the ring could have been worn on her finger. If not, the ring would have been a dangle from the bracelet either empty or with a hankie.

The slave bracelet as Matt was speaking about is a modern version of the Victorian 'garter' bracelet.

Breezie

 

[DCMatt]

Randazzo, what you have is called a Garter Bracelet with Ring. Let me give you some history, and you'll know why and how it got its name. Queen Victorian became Queen in 1837 at only 18 years old. She married her cousin, Prince Albert. When Albert died, Victoria went into extremely deep mouring, and never really got over his death. She became prudish and odd is many ways.

As the sovereign ruler, she was head of the Knights of the Garter, which was the HIGHEST order of Knighthood in GB. Membership was limited to certain Knights and their lady companions. Members wore a garter over the left knee and could be visible when riding a horse. Queen Victoria being the prude that she was, could NOT under any circumstances think a woman would show her legs; therefore, she wore the garter on her wrist. This became 'the' fashion for ladies at that time. Even miniature versions were made for little girls.

As I stated above, all people were smaller 100 years ago, so the size of the garter bracelet could have fit a Victorian woman. Depending on the length of her hand, the ring could have been worn on her finger. If not, the ring would have been a dangle from the bracelet either empty or with a hankie.

The slave bracelet as Matt was speaking about is a modern version of the Victorian 'garter' bracelet.

Breezie

I'll buy that for a dollar. As usual, Breezie is right on the mark. Interesting bit of trivia as well.

Nice job, Breezie!

DCMatt

 

[DoranHashemi]

I'm thinking thumb to finger?

 

[randazzo1]

Awesome! Solved! An excellent process and I am, as always, impressed by the knowledge and willingness to help exhibited by the members of this forum. Breezie - you should write a book.

 

[Breezie]

Awesome! Solved! An excellent process and I am, as always, impressed by the knowledge and willingness to help exhibited by the members of this forum. Breezie - you should write a book.

Randazzo, you're welcome, and yes, there is a plethora of knowledge here in TNet, and these people have their own area(s) of expertise. I've learned a lot and am greatful for their help.

As far as the book is concerned, I never did compile all of my newspaper column articles into a book, but maybe I will one day when I retire. Breezie

 

[Paleopilot]

Randazzo, what you have is called a Garter Bracelet with Ring. Let me give you some history, and you'll know why and how it got its name. Queen Victorian became Queen in 1837 at only 18 years old. She married her cousin, Prince Albert. When Albert died, Victoria went into extremely deep mouring, and never really got over his death. She became prudish and odd is many ways.

As the sovereign ruler, she was head of the Knights of the Garter, which was the HIGHEST order of Knighthood in GB. Membership was limited to certain Knights and their lady companions. Members wore a garter over the left knee and could be visible when riding a horse. Queen Victoria being the prude that she was, could NOT under any circumstances think a woman would show her legs; therefore, she wore the garter on her wrist. This became 'the' fashion for ladies at that time. Even miniature versions were made for little girls.

As I stated above, all people were smaller 100 years ago, so the size of the garter bracelet could have fit a Victorian woman. Depending on the length of her hand, the ring could have been worn on her finger. If not, the ring would have been a dangle from the bracelet either empty or with a hankie.

The slave bracelet as Matt was speaking about is a modern version of the Victorian 'garter' bracelet.

Breezie

Fantastic!