Listed by > Shift 2 Thrift Vintage < Listing 101-May-2026
Description: Vintage Smoky Lucite Reverse Carved Chunky Rose Bangle.
Spectacular, highly collectible piece of mid-century estate jewellery. This chunky dome-profile bangle is crafted from rare, smoky-black translucent Lucite and features an incredible array of hand-carved, hand-painted white roses wrapped around the entire band.
This bracelet showcases the timeless "intaglio" art technique. An artisan deeply carved the detailed rose petals into the inside back wall of the acrylic ring and hand-painted the cavities with a crisp white enamel finish. Because the carving is exposed on the interior wall, you can feel the beautiful 3D texture, confirming this is a genuine hand-turned vintage art piece rather than a cheap modern moulded reproduction. When worn, the roses appear to float magically inside the glossy, dark translucent frame.
With its wide 3.3cm domed outer wall and rare smoky coloration, this bracelet serves as a magnificent statement fashion feature. It catches ambient room lighting beautifully, making it an incredible crossover accessory for both modern outfits and vintage rockabilly fashion. It has a beautiful premium weight, tipping the scales at a substantial 64.5 grams, giving it an unmistakable quality feel when worn.
Lucite (a high-grade acrylic resin) was originally developed in the 1930s for military use in airplane windshields because it was shatterproof and clearer than glass. After WWII, fashion designers realized its incredible aesthetic potential. To make these pieces, an artisan used a small dental-style drill to carve intricate floral patterns backwards into the inside rear wall of the solid ring (intaglio carving). They then hand-painted the raw cavities with white enamel, leaving the front surface perfectly smooth and creating a fascinating 3D "floating" illusion. Because it is a form of advanced mid-century plastic, it is naturally lightweight. It does not carry the cold, heavy weight of real glass.
The 64.5-gram weight you registered on your scale is perfectly accurate for a thick, solid acrylic statement cuff of this size. Lucite jewellery of this exceptional calibre was heavily produced in the USA and Europe during the post-war boom and traded globally into premium estate collections.
Made Circa 1950s to 1960s, the absolute golden era of American and European Lucite fashion art.
Condition: The smoky Lucite frame maintains a beautiful, high-gloss glass-like shine with no major scuffs, yellowing, or deep scratches. The white enamel paint inside the rose cavities remains incredibly clean, bright, and vibrant with no flaking or discoloration. A beautiful, display-ready heirloom piece. (Please see photographs for exact visual details).
Visible Flaws: Minor age-related wear, to be expected of a 70-year-old bangle.
Please view images for full condition, images from part of the description. I do not accept returns, and I do not offer Refunds, I clearly list flaws, as a buyer you are open to ask questions and you must ensure you have viewed the full condition of the item, before you purchase it. Photos are enlarged and lighting is enhanced to provide the best view of the listed item. Use of a ruler is recommended to familiarize yourself with the size. Your purchase is your confirmation that you agree with the condition and size of the item.
Approximate Dimensions: Wrist Diameter 6.5cm (medium fit), Length 8cm, Width 3cm, Weight 64.5 grams.
Price: R950.00
Shipping Note: Every effort is made to ship items daily, where possible. I do not ship on weekends and public holidays.
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