QuestionI have a gold bangle bracelet that belonged to my mother or grandmother, w/a bit of engraving on the top. It is marked The D.E.R. Co. on the clasp and also the numbers 1/20. I suspect it is not 14K gold as it would have been marked, maybe gold filled? Any idea of age or value? Thanks, Diane
AnswerG'day Diane and many thanks for your query.
You are right to suggest it is not gold - but gold plate. The mark 1/20 often means it is 1/20th Microns thick - that is the thickness of the plating.
Some of these delightful old bangles were hinged with the scroll style engraved pattern to the top. In order to make them heavier they used to fill them with Jeweler's Wax, but over the years that would fall out and the bangle became dented and bulged. This is a great 'Character' Bangle though, so don't dismiss it.
While these bangles are NOT of any great value, they are certainly a delight, especially the 'Rose Gold' colored ones from around and between the two World Wars (circa 1920 up to circa 1960's even). This means they are NOT strictly Antique which should be 100 years old or more.
While I can't see, feel, measure or touch the item, this is what it sounds like. To be absolutely sure you will need to take it to your local FRIENDLY jeweler and have them do a written appraisal on the item. It will cost, but at least you'll know for sure.
You might also like to add this query to my blog at http://how2valuejewelry.com/ as other may have had a similar problem. Can't hurt anyway and who knows what answers you may get.
Hope this helps...
