Tortoise Shell Ribbon Bangle

Diagonal ribbons of tortoise shell band a large silver bangle, the warm translucent shell set in stripes against the broad metal cuff. It belongs to the third design period, 1951 to 1967, and the design has since been reissued.

Tortoise shell inlaid into silver is a recurring Spratling combination, the organic material given a structural, rhythmic role rather than a decorative one. The diagonal banding across a wide bangle is a bold, graphic use of the contrast between shell and metal.

Because the design has been reissued, correct hallmarks and dating matter for collectors distinguishing early examples, and a vintage silver-and-tortoise-shell bangle of this scale is a substantial piece of the later workshop's jewelry.