FP020 Vintage Frank Patania Sr. gold-wash sterling silver cuff bracelets; circa 1940’s to ‘50’s
Origin: Tucson, Arizona
Dimensions: 2” wide; 5.5” end to end plus 1” non-flexible gap for each cuff; 122.8 grams each
Condition: Excellent – Both cuffs fully hallmarked with a conjoined FP in an oval cartouche, the thunderbird stamp and ‘STERLING’
Provenance: From the estate of Jean Garland, a fan of ballroom dancing. She requested Frank Sr. make her cuff bracelets in gold-washed pairs for the dance floor.
Price: SOLD

Dubbed the “Rio Grande” design, this sophisticated classic appeared in fashion advertisements in the 1940’s – 1950’s, graced fashion events held in that era by Nieman-Marcus' Houston store, and became a staple in the lineup offered at the Thunderbird Shop until it closed in 1999.

Frank Patania, Sr. custom-made these cuffs in gold wash over silver during the Big Band era for their owner, an avid ballroom dancer who loved flashing pairs of golden Patania cuffs on the dance floor. These beauties have never been apart and we are keeping them together. This vintage pair carries the elegance and style that characterized mid-20th century high fashion. One on each wrist sets off a simple ensemble to stunning effect.