Antique Expansion Sweetheart Heart LOCKET Bracelet - The Carmen by D.F. Briggs - c 1890 - 1922, DE LUXE model, Rare Unengraved Silver Tone

Antique heart shaped locket expansion bracelet by The D.F. Briggs Company:

~ Fantastic early example of the popular, much loved expansion stretch bracelet

~ This is a pristine example of the highly sought after Carmen DE LUXE locket model

~ Amazingly remains un-engraved after over a 100 years have passed - so it is ready for you to enjoy it for the blank slate it is or utilize this chance to customize and add your own personal sentimental touch such as initials, monogram, special date(s), short word or message that should continue to endure for many more years to come

~ So well loved that the most of gold plating or gilding has perfectly worn to the silver tone

~ Perfect all on it's own or stack up with other favorites

Ready and waiting for your collection, wrist, or gift giving - you will love this!

AGE OR ERA: True antique / vintage piece - circa late 1800's to the earliest 1900's. Estimating 1892 to 1922. Late Victorian to Edwardian Era cross over piece

MARKINGS: CARMEN D.F.B. Co MADE IN U.S.A. and DE LUXE - this CARMEN mark in all caps or block letters was their earliest Carmen bracelet mark.

METAL/MATERIAL: Formerly had a yellow gold gilding or plating that has mostly all but disappeared or worn away from age and use. The former yellow gold finish is only evident inside the locket as that was an area well protected from wear. It has perfectly and evenly worn to a silver toned base metal that is non-magnetic and has the look and feel of sterling silver - but without a mark I can't say for certain.

CLASP / CLOSURE: None - slide on to wear. The band expands and should fit almost any average sized wrist. My wrist is about 7 1/4” and fits snug, but well. I would estimate that it would fit any size from there on down. Hand shape and size plays a part in fit also. The maximum outstretched circumference is aprox 7.25”.

MEASUREMENTS: The heart shaped locket centerpiece is aprox 3/4" x 3/4" and the band is about 1/2" wide

WEIGHT: x

TESTING: x

U.S. RING SIZE: x

HISTORY, PROVENANCE, ANECDOTAL, METAPHYSICAL, SYMBOLISM &/or LORE: The D.F. B. Company was founded in 1892 by D.F. Briggs and invented the "CARMEN" expanding bracelet in the 1890's - it was named after his daughter. The company became Briggs, Bates, and Bacon in 1922 and operated as such until circa 1950.

They modernized the expansion bracelet in the 1930's and produced these right through the late 1940's / WWII era, when they became know as "Sweetheart" bracelets.

These are yet again enjoying a resurgence in popularity - people are recognizing the value and timelessness of investing, collecting and wearing vintage pieces. Even Ms Keely Jones from the Ted Lasso television series often sported a heart shaped one just like this from the D.F. Briggs Co (I can't tell if hers was this rare DE LUXE locket model) and paired it with many outfits from sweats to formal dresses and everything in between

JUST FOR FUN - AI DESCRIPTION - (GENERATED BY ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE): Embrace the charm of yesteryear with this Early Vintage Expansion Stretch Bracelet from D.F. Briggs, featuring a heart locket that captures the essence of a bygone era. Crafted prior to 1920, this piece is a testament to the Art Nouveau period's elegance and is sure to be a conversation starter at any event. The bracelet’s silver hue and timeless design make it a versatile accessory for any occasion, from casual outings to more special celebrations. The bracelet's unique combination of being a statement piece with the nostalgic flair of an antique locket offers a one-of-a-kind appeal. It's stackable and stretchable, ensuring a comfortable fit for various wrist sizes. This original piece is signed and hails from the United States, reflecting the rich history and craftsmanship of early 20th-century fashion jewelry.

CONDITION: No damage or quirks found to mention. Expansion band mechanisms and locket hardware all in good working order. The locket hinge is good and tight as it should be and opens about half way to about a 90 degree angle - see photos. It retains its original removable heart shaped photo bezel and also has a paper looking backing or insert that sure looks suitable to use this as a scent diffuser locket as well. In an excellent state of preservation all around.

INVENTORY NUMBER OR NOTE: x

"A picture is worth a thousand words"

Please view & enlarge all photographs to closely inspect fine details and to gauge the amount of patina and/or wear. Most older pieces by nature normally have some degree of both and, unless severe, aren't considered damaged and not mentioned. Especially if obvious and/or prominent in the photos. Individuals do have varying levels of desire and tolerance for "vintage charm" so do utilize the scroll arrows beside the photos to allow yourself the opportunity to view them all, as they are an important integral part and extension of the description.

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