Vintage true love sweetheart bracelet, American Queen Pitman & Keeler. 1940s. WW2 Era “sweetheart” jewelry. This gold filled expandable bracelet is more rare than the typical one, as it’s made with a sterling base. Expandable. Widens and contracts via link system around the wrist. Center heart surrounded by 3 dainty flowers. Super thin pinstripes line the backdrop. This heirloom bracelet is in good vintage condition, with slight scratching / signs of wear. Center heart could be engraved with initials. From times of sweet and simple romantic gestures, the most lovely and beautiful keepsake.

Marked:
'American Queen Pitman & Keeler Sterling Base' on inside band

Size:
Adjustable

Measurements:
4" unexpanded // 8” fully expanded

HISTORY:
In the late 1800s when these bracelets were first sold, they were marketed for babies and young girls. They were so popular, that the companies making them soon found a way to appeal to grown women, as well. It wasn’t long before they were marketed as keepsakes for the loved ones of soldiers going away to war in both World Wars. They became known as sweetheart jewelry.

Sweetheart jewelry became extremely popular during World War I, as a means of connection between men off to war overseas and their sweethearts back home. These young men initiated the tradition of sending "sweetheart” jewelry to their girlfriends, wives, sisters, and mothers. It was one of many things that soldiers either made, engraved, or purchased. The production of sweetheart jewelry ended after World War II.

McRae & Keeler manufactured their sweetheart bracelets under the “American Queen” brand name. Both the company name and “American Queen” are stamped on the inside of the bands. In 1907, they changed their name to Pittman & Keeler. Their sweetheart bracelets from this point forward are marked “American Queen” and “Pitman and Keeler.” During WWII, they made sets of sweetheart bracelets and necklaces with matching heart-shaped lockets until the 1950s.

This item is in good vintage condition. Please email theweekenderfashion@gmail.com for additional information as all sales are final.