MARCUS & CO. Art Deco 14k Essex Crystal Bracelet

Reverse carved crystal, or Essex crystal, was a technique created by cutting pieces of rock quartz crystal into a convex form and then polishing it into a cabochon shape. An image is carved into the flat side of the crystal and then hand painted. From the front, the picture appears to be almost three dimensional. Many different images were used in reverse carved crystal jewelry and artwork, but animals were some of the most commonly used.

A beautiful reverse carved crystal bracelet from the Art Deco (ca1920) era by the wellknown company MARCUS & CO.! Made of 14kt yellow gold, the bracelet is decorated with three Essex crystal cabochons, featuring the head of a fox, a hunting dog, and a man on a jumping horse, all of which rest on a shimmery mother of pearl background. The painted carvings are highly detailed, including the animals’ fur and facial features and the rider’s apparel. The bezel set crystals are connected to the surrounding links, which are modeled off of a horse’s tack and saddle equipment including a horseshoe, bit, and stirrup. On the reverse side of one of the crystal bezels is stamped “14K”, “MARCUS & CO.”, and “PAT.SEPT.1924”. The bracelet is secured by a simple spring ring clasp. An amazing example of the era’s work by Marcus & Co., this bracelet would be perfect for the equestrian enthusiast or any antique jewelry collection!

Measurements: The bracelet measures approximately 7 3/4″ long and just over 5/8″ wide at its widest point.

Condition: The overall condition of the bracelet is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold settings or to the reverse carved crystals. The clasp is secure and in good working condition.