Victorian 14K Gold Cannetille Etruscan Revival Bracelet

This is part of Chairish’s Fine Jewelry assortment.

A beautiful 14k yellow gold bracelet from the Etruscan Revival period, circa 1880. The bracelet is exquisitely hand-made and is a fine example of cannetille gold work, which is similar to filigree work with fine gold wires that curl around thinly hammered sheets. Cannetille gold work was inspired by embroidery and nature. The repeating curling designs on each segment of the bracelet are harmonious and elegant. The diamond shape of the segment has an oval decoration, framed with gold wirework, and inside this, there is a symmetrical curling design.

Each segment measures one inch and the bracelet, made up of six segments, is approximately seven inches. Each segment is hollow, and connected through thick gold links decorated with gold beads. The bracelet feels great when worn, and has a safety chain so that it doesn’t fall off. The bracelet weighs a total of 18 grammes and is in perfect condition. This bracelet displays the aesthetic tastes of an era of nostalgia and romance.

Etruscan Revival jewellery has a rich and interesting history. In the early 1800s there was a large excavation of Etruscan tombs outside of Rome. Within these tombs were pieces of original Etruscan jewellery. The Etruscans were master artisans, they created breathtaking pieces of jewellery through their use of gold wirework and granulation, coloured gemstones and glass. The news of the excavation of these tombs, and the treasures contained inside them, spread throughout Europe. Etruscan style jewellery captured the imagination of the public and soon jewellers were intrigued by the designs. Etruscan Revival jewellery rose to popularity with the people of the Victorian era. Inspired by the Etruscans, jewellers implemented the use of wirework, beading, filigree and granulation.