This gate bracelet is handmade in the year 1878 and made of sterling silver. It is marked on both the padlock and the bracelet with the sterling mark of the Lion Passant facing left. This wonderful link bracelet is extra wide and took much more time to construct by the silversmith. It is 1 1/16 of an inch wide and 7 1/4 inches in length with the clasp rings. The lock does open and snap tightly and also has a safety chain so the padlock can not be come lost. The hallmarks include the London City mark and the Letter date for the year 1878.

The Victorian Gate Bracelet History:
Originally designed in England in the mid-1800's during the reign of Queen Victoria, Victorian Gate Bracelets mimic the barred gates found in the castles and estates around the English countryside. Queen Victoria became a collector of different designs of these bracelets that bear her name. The original heart padlock, also drawn from the locks on castle and estate gates, was a working lock and key. The Victorian lady would give the key to her lover as a symbol of their enduring love for one another.

This wonderful original Victorian Gate bracelet is in excellent condition and fine to wear.