Description
RESERVED for A only **** Thank you******************************************
As I have mentioned in the past, to find a Bernard Instone bracelet is always somewhat of a revelation….there just aren’t as many as with other types of his jewellery such as rings, brooches and so on. This scare beauty is a fabulous, show-stopper of a bracelet crafted throughout in 9ct gold, which is such a rarity. This leafy “Ascot” design was part of a suite Bernard designed for Liberty & Co of London. They were nearly all crafted in silver so to have a solid gold bracelet in this design is really quite something.
The bracelet consists of 8 Arts & Crafts panels (each is fully hallmarked) with long leaves draped at differing angles over the structure. There are five, Cadbury purple faceted amethysts of graduating sizes set among the leaves. I believe the stones to be Siberian amethysts as they have that strong concentration of colour….that Cadbury royal purple colour. So vibrant and I am astonished at the beautiful way they adorn the yellow of the gold. There are 40 stones in total. It is a wonderful bracelet that will appeal to a wide market, not just Bernard fans…..it is an exquisite thing which is sumptuous on the wrist too. It has its own solid safety catch which adds extra reassurance when you wear her. There are hinges between each panel so it feels fluid in design.
In immaculate condition, all stones and gold work. There is a lot of gold here, even the hand-made clasp is substantial in size. I love the way an amethyst is set in the button release for the fastener….gorgeous. It measures approx 18.5cm (7.25 inches) in length and is approx 1.3cm wide….it is vibrant, colourful and makes quite the statement.
One of the most sensational bracelets I have come across. It is signed BI, has UK hallmarks on the catch, tongue and on each panel so she is well covered with quality marks.
The design is a book piece appearing on page 159 in Tracy Henriksen’s book “Bernard Instone Designer and Craftsman: the art of a jeweller”. (2022) It is shown in silver with citrines and marcasites in the book. Several gold pieces of the Ascot designs were made in later years – this one is a beautiful example and a scarce thing, assayed in 1970.
I will send by Special delivery within the UK or else by express courier internationally. I will supply it in a beautiful presentation box.
Ref: cwy
