Antique Victorian large Cairngorm gemstone bracelet with sterling silver claw settings and ornate curlicue sterling silver panels

Gorgeous antique Cairngorm (sometimes known as Scottish citrine) gemstone sterling silver bracelet, with decorative curlicue design sterling panels. Cairngorm gemstones are a specific type of smoky quartz, found exclusively in the Cairngorm mountain range area of Scotland. These stones have a lovely yellow to brown hue and look more orangey yellow against some backgrounds and in some lights as can be seen in the photos.

The saw-toothed bezel settings have the Cairngorm stones set with open backs to allow the light to penetrate. The settings have pretty engraving / repousse work around their edges. It is beautifully crafted and fastens with a secure silver spring ring clasp. The panel nearest the clasp is stamped 'silver' and it has a length of about 7.5 inches. Each of the four large Scottish citrine gemstones has a diameter of just under 2cm - I would say 19mm more accurately.

The bracelet is in very good vintage condition.

This Scottish style of jewellery became widely popular in the 1850s and onwards after Queen Victoria began visiting Scotland regularly. Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the royal family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852, having been first leased in 1848. In the autumn of 1842, two and a half years after her marriage to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria paid her first visit to Scotland. She had several pieces of jewellery set with Cairngorm stones, often bought for her by Prince Albert.