Niello Bangle bracelet, Siam enamel sterling bracelet, Black n sterling, Excellent condition, outlets Vintage

This black and sterling Niello bangle bracelet is in excellent condition with a very fine working push clasp closure. The bracelet is marked "Siam Sterling", made in Siam prior to 1939 when Siam became Thailand. The color is dark charcoal or could be referred to as black.

The bangle bracelet measures 3/8” wide and 2 3/8” id with a hinged, push-button tongue closure. The outlets inside circumference is 7 ½”. This sterling bracelet has not been cleaned. I will leave that choice to the new owner.

THE REST OF THE STORY:
These silver and black Thai pieces were popular in the 1950s through the '70s, and were produced by a variety of jewelry shops. It is technically "Niello" or "Nielloware", created by carving out areas of the silver, and baking a sulfur/metals powder in the carved-out areas. The design often displays Mekkala, the Goddess of Lightning, and represents the Thai version (The Ramakien) of the Buddhist and Hindu Indian legend, Ramayama, about a prince, his wife, his parents (King and Queen of Siam), and the evil King of Ceylon. This jewelry was often sent home to American wives/girlfriends from their soldier-husbands/boyfriends on leave from fighting in Viet Nam, or stationed in Thailand during the Viet Nam war.

As I know the former owner of this bracelet, I know it dates at least to the late 60s when her father brought it back from Viet Nam for her.

VJ-54 Sold from a smoke-free business. Thank you for stopping by the Blue Barn.