Rare and exceptional Art Deco Platinon and crystal bracelet

Here is an exceptionally rare piece of Art Deco jewellery in wonderful condition, believed to be French and dating from the 1920s. This bracelet is unusually wide and noticeably bolder than most jewellery from this era which tended to be more delicate.

It comprises a double row of large, unfoiled and faceted square and round crystals in open back Platinon settings that highlight their outstanding sparkle. These are joined with delicate chain links to give a wonderful fluidity to the bracelet when worn.

It fastens with an unusual slide in bayonet clasp that is stamped ‘Platinon’. It is 19 cm long and 2 cm wide, with each of the square and round crystals measuring 8 mm across.

Platinon is an extremely rare metal alloy invented to imitate platinum. It has a natural patina and, importantly, it doesn’t tarnish. It was used for only a few years during the 1920s to produce high quality pieces of costume jewellery which are now, not surprisingly, highly collectable. Platinon bracelets are especially hard to find.

Jewellery made of Platinon first featured at the British Industries Fairs in 1922 and 1929 and was marketed as “The Reputable Platinum Imitation – Finest Finish – Untarnishable.”