Late 19th Century Victorian Sterling Silver and Niello Watch Chain With Large Spring Ring

Description

This sterling silver Victorian watch chain has unique features that make it a special chain. It consists of twisted elongated … more This sterling silver Victorian watch chain has unique features that make it a special chain. It consists of twisted elongated links alternating with smaller oval links. The elongated links have beautiful niello that gives the sterling silver a black striping effect. The smaller links have highlights of copper alloy, which can also be seen along the details of the spring ring. The niello striping continues onto the dog clip where the stripes become bolder. The large 1” spring ring is hand engraved with a rococo pattern of scrolling foliate. The chain is Swiss made and has a pretty, detailed look.

Niello is created with black metallic alloy of sulphur with silver, copper, and manganese. Patterns are engraved into the surface of the jewelry, and the black alloy fills in the engravings to create beautiful designs.

The piece is an unaltered watch chain, with a length of 11 1/4”—it is not quite long enough be a necklace, but could be clipped into a similar watch chain to extend its length. It also could be shortened by removing links to be worn as a bracelet. The spring ring is very secure and measures approximately 1” across. The chain weighs 15.98 grams. less