Preliminary identification

Vintage Bi-Color Lucite & Wood Clamper Bracelet

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking vintage hinged 'clamper' cuff bracelet featuring a bold two-tone split design. One half is fashioned from rich, matte-finished hardwood, while the other features swirled cherry-red cast resin or Lucite, seamlessly joined by brushed gold-tone brass hinge hardware.

Story

The 1970s fashion world turned costume jewelry into sculptural art, pairing organic natural woods with glossy futuristic acrylics. This chunky clamper bracelet perfectly captures that playful clash of earthy and sleek modern aesthetics.

Maker / Origin

During the 1970s and 1980s, design houses like Alexis Kirk, Monet, Trifari, and various boutique European artisans popularized mixed-media jewelry marrying tropical hardwoods with colorful acrylics. While unsigned, this piece reflects high-quality fashion jewelry manufacturing from that vibrant era.

Condition & Value

Good vintage condition with functioning spring hinge; minor surface scuffs and age-consistent patina on the brass-tone caps. Proper spring action keeps value strong.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.