Caroline's Jewelry with a Past is offering a Second French Empire 18kt. yellow gold and silver-topped yellow gold bangle style bracelet circa 1870. This exquisite piece is highlighted by a large oval, prong set, bluish colored moonstone in the center of the bracelet. The moonstone measures 11mm X 8mm, a 4+ carat stone. Finishing the centerpiece, are 10 round, prong set, turquoise stones surrounding the central moonstone and set in a basket style. Diamond accents are set in wings off the main plaque. The diamonds are mounted in silver. The diamonds are both old mine cut and rose cut. They measure 2- 0.10 carats, 2- 0.07carats, 2- 0.05 carats, 2- 0.03 carats and 2- 0.02 carats, with a total weight of 0.54 carats prox. The piece has French hallmarks, a safety chain. It will accommodate up to an 8-1/2" wrist.

In Eastern culture, the moonstone symbolizes good luck. Western lore associates romance with the moon and thus, moonstone because of its opalescent “schiller” like the light of the moon, is considered romantic. Lovers exchanged moonstone to restore peace and love after an argument. Moonstone was also used to “bring” a love nearer. Turquoise has always been considered as a protective stone and diamonds for their resiliency and longevity. The interpretation of this bracelet then, is that the giver of the bracelet wished his love to be long lasting, protected and filled with romance. Of course, that is one meaning. You can create your own.

The gold content of this piece has been tested using standard accepted testing methods, such as acid testing. The silver topping is over 18kt. yellow gold and is designed to enhance the diamonds. The diamond sizes were calculated using a standard jeweler's caliper. The diamonds were tested using a standard jeweler's diamond tester. The stones were not removed from the piece to do physical testing or for weight. The hallmarks were authenticated using Tardy's Poincons D'Or de Platine et de Palladium, 13th. Edition. The bracelet is in very good condition with some "antique" repairs and discoloration of the turquoise that does not detract from the piece. One turquoise has a small chip.