Alpaca Silver Bracelet Appraisal

Mexican Alpaca Silver and Turquoise Inlay Bangle Bracelet

This item is a rigid, circular bangle bracelet featuring a continuous inlay design. Its primary material is identified as "Alpaca silver," which is a common term for nickel silver, an alloy of copper, nickel, and sometimes zinc, known for its silver-like appearance but containing no actual silver. The bracelet's external surface is adorned with a continuous band of turquoise-colored inlay, composed of numerous small, rectangular segments. These segments are neatly set flush with the metal surface, forming an unbroken band around the circumference of the bangle. The color of the inlay is a vibrant, medium-to-dark teal or sky-blue, consistent with natural or stabilized turquoise, or a good quality imitation. The interior surface of the bangle displays a somewhat duller, aged metallic luster, exhibiting signs of wear and minor tarnish, which is typical for Alpaca silver that has been handled and exposed to the elements over time. The edges separating the metal from the inlay appear clean and well-defined, suggesting decent craftsmanship in the inlay work. A key manufacturing detail is the inscription "made in Mexico," indicating its origin. This bangle likely dates from the mid-20th century to more contemporary times, given the prevalent use of alpaca silver and turquoise inlay in Mexican jewelry during those periods. The bracelet has a simple, unadorned form, allowing the vibrant inlay to be the primary decorative element. There are visible scuff marks and light scratches on both the metal and the inlay segments, reflecting general use. The overall construction appears solid and durable. The uniform size and shape of the inlay pieces suggest either machine cutting or very precise hand-cutting, contributing to a clean aesthetic. The item's condition indicates it is a pre-owned piece, with a modest patina on the metal and minor surface wear on the inlaid sections, consistent with its age and usage.