Vintage Mother of Pearl Inlay Hinge Bangle

This is a wide, vintage-style hinged bangle bracelet featuring an intricate mosaic of mother of pearl tiles set into a brass-toned metal frame. The bracelet is constructed with horizontal rows of rectangular white mother of pearl inlays that exhibit characteristic iridescence and creamy white hues. The metalwork consists of two wide decorative bands with embossed scrollwork and floral motifs flanking a central hinge mechanism. It features an integrated pin-style closure, which appears slightly bent, extending from the side. The overall construction suggests an artisanal or mid-20th-century costume jewelry piece, likely produced in the 1960s or 1970s, potentially as a souvenir or export piece from the Middle East or Asia. Condition-wise, the metal shows significant patina, oxidation, and surface wear consistent with age. There are visible gaps and variations in the tile alignment, indicating it was handmade. The inner metal lining shows signs of discoloration and age-related wear, though the structural integrity of the main frame and tiles seems intact despite the bent pin.

Based on my visual examination of this vintage mother of pearl inlay hinged bangle, I have identified it as a mid-20th-century costume jewelry piece, likely originating from India or Egypt during the 1960s-1970s export boom. The bracelet features hand-set rectangular nacre tiles in a brass-toned alloy frame with characteristic repetitive scrollwork. The condition is fair to good; while the lusters of the nacre remains attractive, the significant patina on the metal and the bent locking pin materially affect the value. Furthermore, the visible gaps in the mosaic and oxidation on the interior lining suggest a high-volume artisanal production rather than a high-end luxury manufacture. The market for mid-century 'souvenir' style jewelry remains steady but saturated, with similar pieces regularly appearing on secondary markets like eBay or Etsy. The primary value drivers here are the aesthetic appeal of the iridescence and the vintage character. Conversely, the lack of precious metal content and the mechanical issues with the closure cap the valuation. Authenticity of the materials is verified visually by the growth lines and iridescence of the mother of pearl, though the base metal would require an acid test to rule out plated copper versus solid brass. Without an in-person inspection, I cannot confirm the presence of maker's marks that might be obscured by oxidation or determine if any tiles have been stabilized with modern resins. A physical examination would also be required to assess the tension of the hinge and the feasibility of repairing the closure pin without fracturing the surrounding metal.