Date: Circa 1930-40.

Measurements: Width of 1 13/16 inches at the widest and 7/8 inches at the back. Weight of 55.0 grams.

Hallmarks: P14kP, 14k.

Condition: Excellent, light overall wear.

Historical notes: The word "?Gypsy' (now considered derogatory) is simply a shortened form of the word "Egyptian"? because non-Roma had believed that is where this group originated.

Genetic testing reveals that the Roma first migrated from North India in about the 11th century, and many then roamed to Eastern Europe around the Middle Ages. However, they were and still are found in Western Europe and numerous countries around the globe.

The Rom arrived in the United States from Serbia, Romania, Russia, and Austria-Hungary beginning in the 1880's, part of the larger wave of immigration from southern and eastern Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of many areas in which Roma have traditionally excelled is that of metalwork. The art of the forge is an ancient one and the Roma may have originally learned this while in India. Skilled at plating objects with tin, forming copper objects, or embossing and engraving jewelry, their craft included tin smithing, copper smithing, or silversmithing. Metal repair, automobile body repair, and welding are other offshoots.

The Three Graces is fortunate to have an advisor, a Roma woman, helping us to understand and document more about their modern life and the jewelry worn or passed down. We are deeply grateful to her for sharing her knowledge and history.

Typically, many marriages are still arranged by the parents. Once married, there is a period to ensure that the union is a thriving one. It is possible that the husband, or his family, could reject her, even once wed. After a suitable period, the bond is considered successful, and the woman would receive two bracelets from her parents (like this one), although there are other styles.

Some are graced with The Cameo; Caucasians refer to her as the Gypsy Queen. Others are embellished with horseshoes, and flowers, or their design includes curved edges, while others are straight across, some have pink or red gemstones, and others none. There are even link bracelets.

The shape and motifs vary according to their lineage or "clan"?. While there are many subgroups, some of the main clans are Kalderash, Machvaya, Boyash, Lovari, Modyar, Xoraxai, L?utari.

Final Note: Not all clans or groups utilize the term Roma, we have adopted that for ease of recording this information. Some use Romani just as an adjective. No cultural disrespect is intended.

Some authorities have adopted the word Romani to refer to the people. However, others adopted Romani only to refer to language and culture and Roma for people around the world.
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