Antique * Gold Filled* British Raj Era Braided Elephant Hair Bangle

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DESCRIPTION (Please scroll to the bottom to view video)

Dating to the days of the British Raj - 1858 to 1947, this particular example would date to the earlier part of this era circa 1890’s we believe, but perhaps a little earlier or later either side of this decade.

Crafted as a non-hinged bangle with two rolled gold hoops intertwined with a single strand of Elephant hair, the two hoops then connected with three small joined terminals and one larger section, keeping the two hoops weary together.

Light and very comfortable on the wrist this lovely piece of early jewellery looks wonderful on its own or stacked with your other favourite bangles and bracelets.

Quite a good size and easy to slip on and off at an internal circumference of 20cm.

Elephant hair jewellery is steeped in mythology and history, below is a very brief account.

Elephant hair jewellery originated thousands of years ago with the early African tribesmen who believed elephants were the only connection between the Heavens and the Earth.  They would incorporate elephant tail hair into their jewellery to ward off illness, protect them from harm, to bring them love and happiness.

Later from around the mid eighteenth century when India came under British rule or 'Raj', British colonists, traders and tourist would travel to India to go on safari and hunt exotic game ( it happened.. we do not endorse this ) .... they would ride on the back of the elephant and when finished they would commission pieces of jewellery to be made from their favourite mounts tail hair ( the elephant was not harmed ! ). These exotic pieces would be brought back home as reminders of their safari and given to loved ones as gifts.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
Internal Circumference of 20cm

WEIGHT
2.6 Grams - Very light and comfortable

MARKS
None

CONDITION
Very good vintage preowned condition.  Wire and hair in very good order, no nicks or breaks to either.  Rolled gold is bright and golden with a slight patina here and there.  Nice and round, not misshapen at all.  Lovely thing.


PURCHASE SUMMARY

Laybys available on all items $400 and over. Contact us for more details.

All our items are antique or vintage unless otherwise stated. Condition will be described, it is the responsibility of the buyer to read descriptions and view photos.  Please refer to our guide Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery for more details. 

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