Preliminary identification

Artisan Mixed-Media 'Found Object' Charm Bracelet

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A whimsical, handcrafted charm bracelet featuring a curated collection of gaming and numerical artifacts. It incorporates vintage-style dice, a numbered tile, and a patterned cabochon, all unified by a rustic, soldered metal aesthetic.

Story

The 1980s saw a surge in 'Found Object' art, where designers rescued everyday items to create wearable stories. This piece likely began as a collection of lucky tokens, transformed into a personal talisman by a studio jeweler.

Maker / Origin

While the specific artist is unidentified, this piece belongs to the 'Art Jewelry' movement, which prioritized creative expression over precious gemstones. These makers often sold their work at high-end craft fairs and boutique galleries in urban centers like New York or San Francisco.

Condition & Value

The piece shows a deliberate 'shabby chic' patina. There is some oxidation on the solder joints and minor surface wear on the dice, which is consistent with age and adds to its character. This lived-in look is preferred by collectors of this style.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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.