Mechanical Charms

08/30/2009

The group of charms I bought recently from a dealer in Canada include three "mechanical" charms:

A sterling silver pagoda that opens to show a gold Buddha THIS ONE IS SOLD, SORRY.

A sterling guitar that opens to sheet music

And a sterling heart that opens to show a wedding couple. THIS ONE IS ALSO SOLD.

According to Sandy, a dealer who often sells me vintage and antique charms, the three mechanical charms are all 1960s English charms, valued at about $25 to $30 each.

This kind of mechanical charm was very popular in Britain during that time, and the charms retain their appeal today.

I didn't polish these charms before we took the photos, but I will when I make jewelry with them. I like to polish vintage charms with a polishing cloth, which leaves some of the patina and gives a soft shine.

Photos: Monica Strasen.

@ Jeanne Sather 2009.

Posted at 01:37 PM in Charms, Mechanical Charms | Permalink

Technorati Tags: 1960s, charm bracelets, Charmed Bracelets, charms, English, mechanical charms, mechanicals, sterling silver, vintage

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Charmed Bracelets

Handmade jewelry--with charm and attitude.

08/30/2009