The provided sources detail a specific piece of jewelry – a rhinestone and alloy bracelet manufactured by Avon around 2003. While not a birthstone in the traditional gemological sense, this item represents a significant facet of early 21st-century costume jewelry production and consumer trends. This article will explore the characteristics of this particular piece, its materials, origins, and considerations for its preservation, based solely on the available documentation. It is important to note that the sources focus exclusively on this single item and do not provide broader information about birthstones or gemstone properties.
Historical Context and Origins
The bracelet originates from approximately 2003 and was sourced from the USA. The manufacturer is clearly identified as Avon, a company historically known for direct sales of cosmetics, fragrances, and fashion accessories. The item is explicitly categorized as “old accessories,” indicating it is a vintage or antique piece, not a newly manufactured product. The sources emphasize that the photographs provided are integral to the product description, suggesting a reliance on visual assessment due to the item’s age and condition. The designation as “old Western antique jewelry” further situates the piece within a specific market and consumer understanding of vintage items.
Material Composition and Construction
The bracelet is constructed from a combination of alloy and rhinestones. The sources explicitly state that the alloy metals are electroplated, clarifying that they are not composed of pure silver or pure gold. This is a crucial detail for potential buyers, particularly those with metal allergies. The use of rhinestones suggests an intention to mimic the appearance of more valuable gemstones, offering an affordable alternative. The chain itself is approximately 0.4 cm in width. The bracelet’s length is adjustable, ranging from approximately 17 to 20 cm, with an extension chain of around 3 cm. This adjustability allows it to fit wrist circumferences between 15 and 19 cm. The construction features a two-section chain, allowing for length modification by removing a section, rather than relying on a traditional dangling extension chain.
Condition and Aesthetic Considerations
The sources repeatedly emphasize the importance of carefully reviewing the detailed photographs before purchase. This highlights the item’s pre-owned condition and the presence of imperfections. Specifically, scratches and blemishes are noted on the metal components of the buckle. Despite these imperfections, the buckle is described as functioning normally. The sources stress that the photographs accurately represent the product’s condition, including the “metallic texture” visible in close-up views. Potential buyers are advised to consider whether they can accept these minor defects inherent in older jewelry. The item is presented as-is, with no guarantee against minor flaws associated with its age and previous use.
Purchase and Return Policies
The documentation outlines specific conditions for returns. A refund will only be granted if the product is damaged during shipping or if the received item is demonstrably different from the original product photograph (e.g., broken). Returns are not accepted based on subjective dissatisfaction with the “imagined appearance,” color discrepancies, or sizing issues. This policy underscores the importance of thorough visual inspection prior to purchase and the seller’s commitment to accurately representing the item’s condition.
Maintenance of Vintage Jewelry
A section dedicated to “Maintenance of old jewelry” is included, though it does not provide specific instructions. This suggests a general awareness of the need for careful handling and preservation of vintage items. Given the materials – alloy and rhinestones – gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is likely appropriate, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the plating or stones.
Limitations of the Available Data
It is crucial to acknowledge the limited scope of the provided sources. The documentation focuses exclusively on a single bracelet manufactured by Avon around 2003. It does not offer any information about the broader context of birthstones, gemstone properties, or the history of jewelry making. The sources are primarily descriptive and commercial in nature, intended to facilitate a sale rather than provide comprehensive gemological or historical analysis. Therefore, any attempt to extrapolate broader conclusions about gemstones or birthstones from this data would be inappropriate. The information is specific to this particular piece of costume jewelry and should not be generalized.
Summary Table of Bracelet Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Avon |
| Approximate Date | Circa 2003 |
| Origin | USA |
| Materials | Alloy, Rhinestones |
| Chain Width | 0.4 cm |
| Adjustable Length | 17-20 cm (plus 3 cm extension) |
| Wrist Circumference Fit | 15-19 cm |
| Condition | Pre-owned, with scratches on buckle |
| Type | Bracelet |
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a detailed description of a specific Avon bracelet from around 2003. This piece represents a common form of affordable fashion jewelry popular in the early 21st century. The documentation highlights the importance of understanding the materials used (alloy and rhinestones), the item’s pre-owned condition, and the seller’s return policy. While not a traditional birthstone or gemstone, this bracelet provides a glimpse into the world of costume jewelry and the consumer market of the early 2000s. The limited scope of the sources necessitates a cautious interpretation of the information, focusing solely on the characteristics of this particular item.