Antique bracelet styles through the decades
Bracelet design changed considerably between the Victorian and Art Deco periods, and antique bracelets from each era look quite different from one another. Victorian antique bracelets often took the form of hinged bangles or curb-link chains, sometimes set with a single cabochon stone or a cluster of old cut diamonds. By the 1920s and 30s, the straight, geometric lines of Art Deco had taken over: antique diamond line bracelets, antique diamond tennis bracelets and wide strap bracelets in platinum, built from repeating panels of calibre-cut stones.
Construction is worth understanding before buying any antique bracelet. Antique diamond line bracelets and antique tennis bracelets rely on a series of individual settings joined by small links or a flexible box chain, so wear on an antique bracelet tends to show first at the clasp and at the links nearest it. We check every clasp mechanism and every stone setting on each antique bracelet individually, since a bracelet is handled and flexed far more than an antique ring or antique pendant.
Styles in our antique bracelet collection
Our antique bracelet collection includes Victorian curb and charm bracelets, Edwardian platinum-topped antique bracelets, and Art Deco diamond line and tennis bracelets, alongside antique gemstone bracelets set with sapphires, rubies or emeralds beside diamonds. Many of our antique diamond bracelets and vintage bracelets show the geometric symmetry and bold design typical of the Art Deco period, combining glamour with genuine craftsmanship.
Gold purity and hallmark dates are confirmed on every antique bracelet we sell, whether it is a delicate Victorian bangle or a bold Art Deco diamond tennis bracelet. We hold antique bracelets to suit daily wear as well as more occasional pieces, and can help you choose between an antique gemstone bracelet and an antique diamond bracelet depending on how you plan to wear it.
Buying an antique bracelet: what to look for
Every bracelet in our antique bracelet collection has been carefully chosen and checked to make sure it is authentic and of high quality. When you buy an antique bracelet from Friar House, whether an antique diamond bracelet, an antique gemstone bracelet or a Victorian charm bracelet, you are getting a genuine piece of history rather than a modern reproduction, and we note any repairs or replaced links honestly in the description.
If you are choosing an antique bracelet for daily wear, ask us about clasp security and link tolerance before buying - some antique clasps are more robust than others, and we can advise on which antique bracelets in our collection suit everyday wear against those better kept for special occasions.
Visit us or browse online
Our antique bracelet collection is updated regularly as new pieces come in. If you are looking for a specific style, period or gemstone within our antique bracelets, please contact us directly - we often have pieces not yet listed online. We also welcome visitors to our shop at 29 High Street, Battle, East Sussex, open Monday to Saturday, 10:15 to 17:00.
