Peacock Feather Bangle Bracelet Value Guide
- Period
- 1940s-1960s
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- Lucite, acrylic paint
- Category
- Bangle bracelet
This mid-century Lucite bangle is a quintessential example of 1940s-1960s American costume jewelry, featuring a hand-painted peacock feather motif on a cream-colored base. Its collectible appeal lies in the transition from early plastics like Bakelite to versatile Lucite, reflecting the era's fascination with exotic, nature-inspired aesthetics.
What affects the value of Peacock Feather Bangle Bracelet?
- Condition of the hand-painted acrylic, as chips or fading in the peacock motif significantly reduce market value.
- Surface clarity and lack of deep scratches or 'crazing' within the cream-colored Lucite material.
- Current market demand for mid-century botanical and animal motifs, which typically command prices in the $40-$60 range.
- The width of the bangle, with wider 'chunky' profiles often fetching higher prices among vintage jewelry collectors.
How to Identify Peacock Feather Bangle Bracelet?
- Verify the material is lightweight Lucite, which lacks the heavy clunk of Bakelite and does not react to Simichrome testing.
- Examine the peacock feather design for signs of hand-painting, such as slight variations in brushstrokes and paint thickness.
- Check for the characteristic cream-colored opaque finish common in United States manufacturing from the mid-20th century.
- Look for a seamless circular construction typical of molded acrylic bangles from the 1940s through the 1960s.
History of Peacock Feather Bangle Bracelet
Bangle bracelets have a rich history, dating back thousands of years to ancient civilizations in South Asia and Egypt, where they were often made from shells, stones, or copper. In the early to mid-20th century, materials like Bakelite, Lucite, and other plastics became popular for jewelry due to their versatility and affordability, leading to a surge in creative designs. This particular style, featuring a peacock feather motif, was a fashionable choice during the mid-century, reflecting an appreciation for nature-inspired and exotic designs in accessories.
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