An incredible bangle by an outstanding jewellery firm - P. Orr and Sons - please read their illustrious history below.

Dating to the Victorian era this fine bangle is almost definitely a commission piece made for the original wealth owner ‘MARY’, and comes with its fabulous original Victorian blue velvet and satin hinged box, with P. Orr and sons logo in gold, which alone is quite valuable.

In 1843 Peter Orr and his brother Alexander sailed from Scotland to Madras and laid the foundation for what would become India's most esteemed silversmith company. His exceptional skill led him to being appointed Jeweller and Silversmith for the Prince of Wales.

Crafted from Sterling silver this wide - 2.6cm, and heavy bangle - 44 grams, is designed as a full cuff with hidden push in box clasp and has the name ‘MARY’ in very ornate script to the front, and the verso is unadorned.

We believe this treasured and cared for bangle has spent little if no time on the original owner(s) wrists… in excellent condition with no faults to mention.

An heirloom piece for anyone to whom the name ‘MARY’ holds significance.. imagine handing this superb piece down through your family for generations to come.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
2.6cm wide throughout
Internal measured across - 6cm x 5.4cm
Internal circumference - 18cm

ERA
Victorian 1837-1901

WEIGHT
44 Grams

MARKS
None
Tested as Sterling Silver

CONDITION
Excellent antique condition.  No dents or dings. Applied ornate ‘MARY’ is fine quality, secure and stunning.  Box clasp is perfect, opens and closes securely. An outstanding piece.

HISTORY OF P. ORR AND SONS 1843- TODAY 

In 1843, Peter Orr and his brother Alexander, hailing from Scotland, set foot in the bustling port of Madras, India. Almost immediately, they found their calling as watchmakers for the esteemed silversmith firm Gordon & Co. Following the retirement of Gordon in 1849, the brothers embraced their destiny, transforming the establishment into the largest and most splendid silversmith company in all of India.

By 1876, the talents of Peter and Alexander earned them the distinguished title of Jewellers and Silversmith to the Prince of Wales.  In 1879, Peter Orr commissioned the talented architect Robert Chisholm to create a magnificent building for their shop. This splendid building was inaugurated by Prince George, Duke of York—who would later ascend as King George V—and Princess Mary, destined to become Queen Mary.

The firm flourished, crafting exquisite silverware and jewellery in the captivating Swami style. In the local Tamil tongue, "Swami" signifies deity, and this enchanting style, emblematic of Madras and Southern India, is adorned with intricate figures of Hindu gods and sacred narratives. Through the artistry of the firm, Swami silver captured the hearts of not only India but also Europe, where its creations became treasures coveted by royals and aristocrats alike.

By the dawn of 1903, records indicated a thriving workshop boasting over 600 skilled artisans. Yet, the shadows of the Second World War loomed, compelling the firm to pivot from the creation of silverware and jewellery back to watchmaking.

Today, the legacy of their artistry endures, with some of the company’s most exquisite works proudly displayed in renowned international institutions, including the illustrious Victoria and Albert Museum.