A beautifully crafted antique Victorian sterling silver Albertina watch chain dating to around 1880, embellished with applied rose gold floral decoration, an elegant helical-column T-bar and a dramatic foxtail tassel. More elaborate than the traditional gentleman's Albert chain, Albertinas were created as fashionable jewellery for Victorian ladies, combining everyday practicality with decorative elegance.
Designed to suspend a pocket watch, locket or other treasured accessory, Albertinas have become highly sought-after as wearable antique jewellery. This versatile example can also be worn as a distinctive bracelet. To make fastening easier, we have discreetly added a removable 7mm sterling silver jump ring beside the original T-bar and tassel, allowing it to be worn comfortably around the wrist without permanently altering the original chain.
The Albertina is formed from two beautifully matched rows of twisted rope chain, gathered by a pair of decorative sliding connectors. One side of the connector is engraved with graceful ivy leaves in polished silver, while the other is embellished with delicate flowers and foliage with applied rose gold accents—a charming example of the naturalistic decoration popular during the late Victorian Aesthetic Movement. The subtle contrast of silver and gold lends warmth and depth to the design while remaining unmistakably Victorian in character.
One end retains its original sterling silver dog clip, while the other is fitted with an elegant helical-column T-bar inspired by classical architectural forms. Suspended below is a wonderfully decorative foxtail tassel, its finely woven chains terminating in polished oval silver beads that echo the design of the T-bar.
Elegantly proportioned and beautifully preserved, this is a refined Victorian Albertina that remains every bit as wearable today as it was almost 150 years ago. Whether worn as a bracelet, collected as an original Albertina watch chain or displayed alongside other antique jewellery, it is a beautiful example of late nineteenth-century craftsmanship that effortlessly bridges fashion and history.
THE DETAILS:
METAL: Sterling silver, gold
DIMENSIONS: Wearable bracelet length 20.5cm (8-1/8 inches). Total length end to end 27cm (10-3/4 inches). Dog clip 21 x 7mm. T-bar 31.75mm. Tassel drop 6cm (2-3/8 inches).
WEIGHT: 13.5 grams
HALLMARKS: Unmarked. Professionally tested as sterling silver throughout with gold accents.
DATE: Victorian, circa 1880.
CONDITION: Very good antique condition with only light age-related surface wear. The original dog clip operates perfectly and closes securely.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring they are ready to wear and enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
