Overview
This is a classic mid-20th-century Egyptian Revival link bracelet featuring bezel-set carved gemstone cabochons depicting scarab beetles.
Identification
Mid-Century Carved Multi-Gemstone Scarab Bracelet
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
This style became highly popular in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, riding a wave of Egyptian Revival fascination. Numerous American costume and semi-fine jewelry companies produced these, including WRE Richards, Burt Cassell, Bal-Ron, and Bojar. It is common to find clasps stamped with 'W. R. C. ' (W. R. Cobb Company), which indicates the manufacturer of the clasp findings, rather than the maker of the bracelet itself.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Based on the visible evidence, the carved gemstone cabochons (including carnelian, chalcedony, quartz, and onyx) appear intact without obvious major chips or cracks. The ribbed links and spring ring clasp are present and structurally sound.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
Mid-century Egyptian Revival scarab bracelets maintain a steady, nostalgic appeal in the secondary vintage jewelry market. Buyers are typically vintage fashion enthusiasts and casual collectors active on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Etsy. Prices are largely dictated by the condition of the stones and metal plating, though signed pieces by recognized American makers sell faster and command a slight premium.
Value Drivers
▲ Classic mid-century Egyptian Revival design with high nostalgic appeal.
▲ Multi-gemstone composition (carnelian, chalcedony, quartz, onyx) provides attractive color variety.
▲ Intact spring ring clasp and ribbed wire links indicate good structural condition.
Concerns
▼ Unverified maker's mark — lack of a recognized signature (e. g., Burt Cassell, WRE Richards) limits the collector premium.
▼ Unverified metal content — if base metal rather than 12k/14k gold-filled, the value drops toward the $50 floor.
▼ Potential hidden chips or abrasions on the carved scarabs could deter buyers.
Best Venue
List on a broad vintage marketplace like eBay, Etsy, or Poshmark where mid-century costume jewelry performs best. Target an optimistic listing price around $115-$125 to allow room for offers. Before listing, inspect the clasp and the back of the links with a loupe for a specific maker's mark or a gold-filled stamp (e. g., 1/20 12K GF) to justify the higher end of the range.
Upside Potential
If a loupe inspection reveals a highly sought-after maker's mark (such as Van Dell or WRE Richards) alongside a 14K gold-filled stamp, and the stones are in pristine condition, the bracelet could reach or slightly exceed the $130 high-end.