Vintage Victorian Sterling Silver Chain Mail Mesh Purse Bag 123 Grams or 4.3 oz
Vintage Sterling Silver French Chatelaine Mesh Chainmail Purse - Victorian
Amazing condition, beautifully made.
123 grams (4.3 oz)
Dimensions 6.5" x 4.5"
Mesh bags are slinky—and deceptively tough—purses made out of the same sort of metal links used in armor. In the late 1800s, the medieval look was all the rage, so chainmail-like coin purses that attached to a chatelaine were stylish accessories for Victorian ladies. Affluent ladies of this era carried their purse to a Party or an evening out . Features tiny solid Sterling Silver chain rings woven beautifully into an elegant purse.
It wasn't until the early 20th century that a mesh machine was patented and these metal handbags weren't such an incredible luxury. By the 1910s, the American company Whiting and Davis was producing wildly popular spins on the concept. Its bags, often made of German silver, gunmetal, or sterling, featured hand-etched frames and graceful silhouettes. For nearly a century, the company dominated this market, and Paul Poiret and Elsa Schiaparelli both designed for them.
Flappers went crazy over mesh bags in the 1920s, especially those with screen-printing or enamel zigzag patterns. During the Depression, designers switched to base metals like copper, and the style all but disappeared during the rations of World War II. But the mesh bags made a comeback in the '50s as stars like Ingrid Bergman and Jane Russell sported them in the movies. In the '70s, mesh was even used in halter tops with matching disco bags.
Shipping from United Kingdom
Processing time
1-3 business days
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns and exchanges
Just contact me within: 7 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery
I don't accept cancellations
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
- Perishable products (like food or flowers)
- Digital downloads
- Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)
- Items on sale
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Custom and personalised orders
I accept custom requests and personalised options where available.
Bespoke customs designs are agreed before payment. Custom items are non refundable.
Sizing details
I make all my handmade rings, bracelets and pendants to the size requested at checkout. For vintage items, especially bracelets and bangle cuffs please check all measurements in the listing description. Checking sizes against your own jewellery is a good way also to confirm the fit. Please get in contact if you need any help with sizing.
Care instructions
I have a blog on my website (below) on how to care for jewellery. I also supply a free polishing cloth for most orders.
https://yougotthesilveruk.patternbyetsy.com/post/159974548155/a-few-tips-and-info-on-how-to-clean
Gift wrapping and packaging
All items come boxed with a YGTS logo ready to gift. Headed paperwork supplied with no cost of purchase info on the invoice.
Wholesale availability
I currently don't offer wholesale quantity as my handmade items are carefully priced. But I will consider requests.
Express Shipping
I offer free worldwide shipping. If an Express service is required, usually 3-5 days, I can create an invoice to cover this (at cost) with your purchase. Please contact me before purchase to arrange it.
Shipping Information
I process and ship vintage and already manufactured items in 1-3 working days. Handmade items, made to a specific size are shipped within 5 to 7 working days. (Weekends excluded)
International postage usually takes 5-7 days to arrive in your country from dispatch, then it's down to customs processing in the buyers country. I supply tracking numbers and timescale info via email for all orders.