Has this AEM bangle been resized?

Questions on polishing, restoration, conservation + manufacturing techniques
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JenniferEricsson
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Joined: Wed Feb 22, 2017 5:06 am

Has this AEM bangle been resized?

Post by JenniferEricsson »

I have a lovely vintage sterling silver bangle signed AEM that has this mark on two places. Is this a sign of resizing or is it just the way the silversmith soldered the ends together?

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AG2012
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Joined: Fri Apr 13, 2012 9:47 am

Re: Has this AEM bangle been resized?

Post by AG2012 »

Hi,
I think it was resized (I work with jewelry; at least this is not what I would do when making it).
The bangle is not die stamped. ``S`` shaped pieces were individually soldered. They could have been bent a little to fit the desired circumference, no need to cut the end of one of them. But the silversmith might have decided to do it his way - there are no strict rules.
Resizing is another matter; removing ``S`` shaped pieces to manipulate them is difficult – cutting is much easier.
Let`s have in mind everything is done at very high temperature.
But I cannot tell for sure because it has old natural patina. After soldering, the entire piece is heated and immersed into acid pickle and patina is completely lost.
Or resizing was done decades ago.
Do not be too concerned about the issue - enjoy your bangle.
Regards
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