Overview:
Finely detailed antique diamond & natural sapphire bracelet by Leitao & Irmao (circa 1887-1937).
Crafted in Portuguese 19k yellow gold, the bracelet is a remarkable example of jewelry at its finest, created by the celebrated house of Leitao & Irmao. Bearing Tiger hallmarks (1887-1937) the bracelet represents an important period in Portuguese decorative arts when exceptional craftsmanship, romantic design, and extraordinary gemstones came together to produce jewels of extraordinary beauty.
The bracelet is masterfully crafted with a scrolling floral and foliate pattern, with richly sculpted leaves and blossoms a sense of movement, exemplifying meticulous craftsmanship for which Leitao & Irmao became renowned. The center of the bracelet highlights a beautiful natural double cabochon sapphire with a surround of shimmering old mine cut diamonds. The sapphire has been certified by GIA, is Cambodian in origin, and confirmed to have no indication of heating. Untreated Cambodian sapphires are prized for their transparency, vivid royal blue color and remarkable brilliance. While Kashmir sapphires have long occupied the pinnacle of sapphire collecting with their legendary velvety textured and limited production, the finest unheated Cambodian sapphires rival them in beauty with a brighter, more crystalline appearance and outstanding saturation.
Founded in 1822, Leitao & Irmao is regarded as Portugal's foremost historic jeweler and has served generations of Portuguese royalty, aristocracy and distinguished clientele. Appointed jeweler to the Portuguese Royal Household, the firm earned an unparalleled reputation for producing jewels of exceptional quality, many of which remain in royal collections and museums today.
The bracelet is a celebration of everything that defines a coveted antique jewel: the legacy of one of Europe's great jewelers, masterful hand craftsmanship, and a beautiful no heat Cambodian sapphire. GIA certificate is included (Sapphire Origin Report). The bracelet is in very good condition showing very minimal wear. We have not cleaned the bracelet in order to preserve the patina and collector value.
The piece was acquired on a recent trip to Portugal, one of Europe's most exciting destinations for discovering exceptional antique and vintage jewelry. Portugal's thriving antiques community, historic markets, and renowned art and antiques fairs provided access to remarkable jewelry with provenance, exceptional beauty and character. Each piece was carefully selected for craftsmanship, originality and history. I am delighted to share these newly acquired pieces. Please shop our site to view the entire collection.
Specifications:
Weight: 38.79 grams
Stones: Old mine cut diamonds total an estimated 1.80 carats (estimated at I-J color and VS1-I1 clarity). The sapphire is double cabochon cut, measuring 7.94 x 7.23 x 6.38mm. The sapphire is natural and Cambodian in origin. No indications of heating to the gemstone.
Size & Measurements: The bracelet will fit a wrist up to 7 inches. The braceley measures 13.5mm wide (0.53 inches). The bracelet is fitted with a safety chain.
Metal & Hallmark:
19k yellow gold. The pendant is stamped with the Portuguese Tiger (II) head .800 fineness mark for 19.2k gold and dates to 1887-1937. Also stamped is "Leitao & Ir"
Please note that vintage and pre-owned jewelry may test slightly below the stamped or tested standard due to manufacturing tolerances, alloy variations, age, solder content, or wear. The piece may test from 16k to 18.8k gold with XRF methods.
