Found in France: Large and substantial portrait miniature clasp has been re-stranded at some point with beautifully pearlescent fresh water pearls, and really they're sized perfectly for the size and 'weight' of the clasp. Ready to wear, it's made for up to a 7" wrist size. There are no marks such as silver marks, and I feel quite sure it is a deep micron gold layer on substantial brass. The look is fine gold, or at least vermeil, but without the silver marks, I feel quite certain I'm right. Very much in fashion she fits Louis-Philippe era, c. 1820-30. Full measurements noted on our photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the portrait miniature is larger than most bracelet clasps, quite substantial and would feel off balance with seed pearl strands but looks perfect with the 5 mm diameter fresh water pearls as you see it. They do not seem original to it, and note it has been nicely strung (look at joint), but have been strung without knots. Is that common with freshwater pearls? Very sturdy, and fits up to a 7" wrist, could be worn confidently. Clasp tongue holds tight, secure. The single flaw for mention is a hairline on the mother of pearl backing to the portrait which is not painted on that panel of pearl and does not have any corresponding hairline. A stunning beauty, this one!
