Fine Rare and small 18th century Georgian era plaited woven brunette hair mourning or memento bracelet with 16k - 18k gold clasp. Cannetille worked and with gold mark (not fully readable). Seems like a child-size, but late 1700s to 1800 people were much smaller. It is only 5.5" wrist size, clasp closed. I wish we had its story, an ID and a date engraved on back, but without it we're left to conjure if this was a love token for a bride, or a mourning memento for a lost young wife or child. So many women died in childbirth back then, or from disease, as did their children, sadly. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Excellent condition for age and type, without any damage or loss to report. The woven hair is superbly crafted and shows no sign of wear or loss. A deep coffee-brunette color, no gray - a young person's long hair. The way it's worked makes one think it's got a lot of stretch to it, and it might have a little, but laid flat, it is just 5.5" long, considering clasp would be closed for wear (tongue not included in that measurement). Clasp is perfect, as well, with a Persian turquoise cabochon mounted in brilliant gold. As noted, I can find goldsmith's mark, but I can't get a clear photo or visual of it enough to know for certain if it's French (as it seems). I've had this one in my own collection for 15 years or so, having bought it in London.
