Antique Raj Elephant Hair Bangle

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    • This unusual antique 18K gold bangle features a thick, black singular strand of elephant hair within the twisted gold ropework design.

      It is a fine example of a circa 1880 souvenir bracelet from British ‘Raj’ era India. In this period, there was a trend to incorporate jewellery with strands of elephant hair, after wealthy visitors went on a ride on an elephant ride and subsequently commissioned jewellery with a strand of tail hair from an elephant as a memento of their trip (without harming the elephant!).

      These exotic pieces would be brought back home as reminders of their trip and given to loved ones as gifts. Elephant hair jewellery dates back thousands of years, with African tribesmen using elephant tail hair into their jewellery to ward off illness, protect them from harm, to bring them love and happiness.

      The bangle has an internal diameter of 58mm and there is a small degree of flexibility so it can be put on the wrist easily. The bangle measures 3mm across.

      It remains in good overall condition. Upon loupe magnification there is evidence of historic repair to the clasp. It weighs 6.47 grams, and tests as 18K gold. 

      A rare and unusual piece of history!

    This unusual antique 18K gold bangle features a thick, black singular strand of elephant hair within the twisted gold ropework design.

    It is a fine example of a circa 1880 souvenir bracelet from British ‘Raj’ era India. In this period, there was a trend to incorporate jewellery with strands of elephant hair, after wealthy visitors went on a ride on an elephant ride and subsequently commissioned jewellery with a strand of tail hair from an elephant as a memento of their trip (without harming the elephant!).

    These exotic pieces would be brought back home as reminders of their trip and given to loved ones as gifts. Elephant hair jewellery dates back thousands of years, with African tribesmen using elephant tail hair into their jewellery to ward off illness, protect them from harm, to bring them love and happiness.

    The bangle has an internal diameter of 58mm and there is a small degree of flexibility so it can be put on the wrist easily. The bangle measures 3mm across.

    It remains in good overall condition. Upon loupe magnification there is evidence of historic repair to the clasp. It weighs 6.47 grams, and tests as 18K gold. 

    A rare and unusual piece of history!

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    We offer a no questions asked 30-day return policy on all orders

    All our items are sent boxed and gift wrapped with free global insured shipping

    We examine, describe and photograph all our jewellery with the utmost care

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