Antique 15kt Bangle, with Arrow Key

The Story & History

A simply magical piece of jewellery, this rare antique hinged bangle was made in England in the 1890s and possesses one of the most charming and unusual details imaginable: an arrow-shaped key, suspended from the bracelet by a delicate safety chain.

The key is not merely decorative. It is the mechanism that brings the jewel to life, with the arrow-shaped key used to open the heart-shaped clasp. It is an extraordinary piece of VictorianVictorian jewellery refers to jewellery made during the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901. It is one of the most varied periods in jewellery history, encompassing romantic, sentimental,... More ingenuity and one of those wonderful details that makes an antique jewel genuinely memorable.

After 25 years in jewellery, this is described as a particularly unusual and unique discovery.

Design & Details

Beautifully crafted in 15kt gold, the bangle has a hinged construction and incorporates a distinctive heart-shaped opening mechanism. Suspended from a safety chain is the remarkable arrow-shaped key, which can be inserted to release the heart and open the bangle.

The combination of the heart, arrow and ingenious mechanical construction gives the piece a wonderfully romantic character, while the gold work retains the warmth and refinement of late Victorian jewellery.

At 19 grams, it has a pleasing weight and substance on the wrist.

Styling & Wearability

This is the sort of jewel that immediately becomes a talking point. Rather than simply being beautiful to look at, it has a hidden mechanical feature that invites discovery — the little arrow key revealing its purpose when used to open the heart.

It would be a wonderful addition to a collection of Victorian jewellery, particularly for a collector drawn to unusual mechanisms, sentimentalSentimental Jewellery refers to jewellery designed to express personal feelings, relationships, memories or emotional attachment. It was particularly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods, when jewellery could carry meanings... More motifs and jewels with an element of surprise.