The white metal sensation of the 19th century

A rare aluminium bracelet, circa 1860, stamped on the clasp DV for the maker Henri Deville. Henri-Étienne Sainte-Claire Deville was a French chemical researcher who funded by Napoleon II invented the first economical process for producing aluminium. Due to the Victorian fascination with novelties in jewellery, aluminium enjoyed great celebrity status and was initially more expensive than gold – the first kilogram refined in 1854 was priced at 3000 French francs.  Jewellers experimented with the new metal and at the Paris Exhibitions pieces made from aluminium caused a sensation. This bracelet is comprised of gilt orbs surmounted by textured aluminium floral motifs with a central pendant drop.  As with the finest quality aluminium jewellery, this bracelet is mother-of-pearl backed. The bracelet is 7 inches in length and 1 and 1/8 inches wide. It retains its original bright colour and is immaculate. There are similar examples in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

£2950