Fashion legend Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s sole fine jewelry collection included some of the most exciting and original works ever made — she loved costume jewelry but simply couldn’t resist designing with diamonds. Today, whether or not a given design happens to bear the house’s iconic logo, vintage Chanel bracelets, pendant necklaces, earrings and other accessories lend a bold touch to any ensemble.
Chanel established her business as a Paris hat shop in 1910 and started selling clothing in 1913. She introduced her costume jewelry in the 1920s, when the economy was roaring and fine jewelry was the main mode of adornment among her clients. Fearless about giving offense, Chanel proclaimed, “I love fakes because I find such jewelry provocative, and I find it disgraceful to walk around with millions of dollars around your neck, just because you are rich.”
Then, in 1932, in the midst of the Great Depression, Chanel dramatically switched gears and designed her first and only diamond jewelry collection, Bijoux de Diamants.
The lyrical and bold Chanel designs centered on five motifs: fringe, ribbons, feathers, the sun and stars. A dramatic diamond fringe headpiece was worn over the brow, while a fringe bracelet draped down the palm. A ribbon was tied in a bow at the front of a necklace and the top of a headband. These textile motifs linked the collection to the couturier’s clothes.
Even as rave reviews flowed in from the members of the press who attended the collection’s single showing, the International Diamond Corporation caved to the demands of the men in the French jewelry industry who forcefully expressed their firm belief that a fashion designer, and a female one at that, didn’t have the talent to make important jewels. At the same time, they were worried that Chanel’s diamond necklaces, brooches, bracelets and other creations would compete with their collections and cut into their profits. The pieces were broken up after the exhibition, and a planned London showing was canceled.
Afterward, Chanel never designed another diamond jewelry collection. Instead, she focused on costume and the demi-fine pieces she made in collaboration with Fulco di Verdura, when he worked at Chanel during the 1930s.
In 1993, the House of Chanel revived its fine jewelry business. Over the years, it has made near-exact renditions of the 1932 designs and imagined new silhouettes incorporating the original five motifs, as well as other themes beloved by Chanel, such as the lion, representing her Leo zodiac sign, and camellia flowers.
Find a range of vintage Chanel earrings, watches and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Chanel Vintage Gold CC Turn Lock Chain Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Bellevue, WA
DETAILS: Hallmark: CHANEL Made in France 1996 collection Gold Plated The bracelet is in good condition showing minimal wear Measurements approx.: chain 7" long Comes with box IMPORT...
Gold
Chanel Baroque Link Bracelet, Workshop Goossens
By Chanel
Located in Riverdale, NY
Chanel link bracelet in antique gilt bronze with pate de verre faux emerald cabochons in the Renaissance taste. Handmade in a process unique to Goossens in which the glass is applied...
Chanel Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Chanel bracelet embodies a fusion of architectural precision and minimalist elegance. Crafted in exquisite 18k yellow gold, it exudes a warm and refined presence...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chanel Camellia 18k White Gold Floral Circle Charm Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Chanel's Camellia 18k White Gold Floral Circle Charm Link Bracelet exudes timeless elegance with its intricate design and fine craftsmanship. A statement piece with a chain style, it...
18k Gold, White Gold
Chanel Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Chanel bracelet embodies a fusion of architectural precision and minimalist elegance. Crafted in exquisite 18k yellow gold, it exudes a warm and refined presence...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CHANEL Vintage Gold Tone Sunburst CC Coin Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Nice, FR
CHANEL vintage antiqued gold tone sunburst coin links bracelet featuring CC logos. Spring clasp closure. Embossed CHANEL Made in France on the reverse of each coin. Indicative mea...
Gilt Metal
Chanel 18k White Gold C Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This elegant Chanel bracelet exudes sophistication with its 18k white gold construction. The classic link design offers a timeless appeal, making it a versatile accessory for any occ...
White Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage 1995 CHANEL ID Plate Leather Chain Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Kingersheim, Alsace
Vintage 1995 CHANEL ID Plate Leather Chain Bracelet Measurements: Height: 0.59 inch (1.5 cm) Wearable Length: 7.67 inches (19.5 cm) Features: - 100% ...
$1,411
Chanel bangle bracelet
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Chiseled golden metal bangle bracelet. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Diameter: 5.5 cm - Circumference: 16 cm SKU:BRAB101
Gilt Metal
Chanel Black Wool and Gunmetal limited Edition Charm Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Stunning Rare Authentic Chanel black wool and gunmetal charms bracelet in Mint condition. Black wool woven through gunmetal hardware with a fabulous left embellishment. The focal p...
Chanel Gold Tone Gold Plated 31 Rue Cambon Paris Pendants Bracelet, 1994
By Chanel
Located in Central & Western District, HK
Brand: Chanel Reference: JW242 Length of Bracelet: 17.5cm Material: Gilt Metal Year: 1980’s Made in France Please Note: the jewelries are guarantee 100% authentic pre-owned therefor...
Gold, Gold Plate, Gilt Metal
$2,704
Chanel bracelet 1930s
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - Silvery metal four-row bracelet with rhinestones. A Collection circa 1930 - Gabrielle Chanel era. Not signed. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: 18 cm SK...
Chanel Vintage Gold Toned Quilted Links Bracelet 1985
By Chanel
Located in Nice, FR
CHANEL vintage gold toned bracelet featuring two tiered of quilted links and a dangling ball charm with CC logos at the end of the chain. Spring clasp and toggle closure. Marked CH...
Chanel 2018 Collection Satin Gold CC Logo Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Chanel light satin gold finish chain link bracelet from the 2018 fall winter collection. The large disk is 1.8 inches and has a cutout design of the iconic CC logo, the name Chanel a...
Gold Plate
Vintage ICONIC CHANEL Logo Coin Medallion Charm Hoop Chain Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Kingersheim, Alsace
Vintage ICONIC CHANEL Logo Coin Medallion Charm Hoop Chain Bracelet Measurements: Height: 2.95 inches (7.5 cm) Wearable Length: 7.87 inches (20 cm) Features: - 100% Authentic CHANE...
Chanel vintage Bracelet 1980 Paris
By Chanel
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Chanel vintage 1980 bracelet . Three link of beautiful crystal sertis clos in the quilt work of gold plate. Recto verso. Chanel stamp on one of the breloque. Made in France.
Vintage 2000's 18k Yellow Gold Triple Cable Link Bracelet
Located in Boston, MA
Vintage 2000's 18K Yellow Gold Triple Cable Link Bracelet - The bracelet measures .25 inches wide and 7.25 inches long and features a spring ring clasp. The bracelet is stamped...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
BOUCHERON PARIS 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Link Bracelet 1970s Vintage
By Boucheron
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Boucheron Paris 18k Yellow Gold & Diamond Bracelet by Pery Et Fils Circa 1970s Vintage Here is your chance to purchase a beautiful and highly collectible designer bracelet. Descrip...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold 7 Carats Diamond Link Anchor Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
"This is an estate diamond anchor link bracleet. It is made in 18k yellow gold, mounted with round cut diamonds and is of excellent quality considering it's an estate piece. Designed...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Reinad NYC Gold Tone Link Bracelet, 1990s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Reinad NYC Gold Tone Link Bracelet Circa 1990s. Two distinct designs of gold-tone links are then finished with the most luxurious, heavy, and wide closure, which adds a touc...
Mixed Metal
18K Diamond and Ruby Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Indulge in the ultimate luxury with our 18k Diamond and Ruby Bracelet. Crafted from 18k white gold and adorned with 3.85 carats of dazzling diamonds and 4.54 carats of radiant rubies...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18k yellow gold Link and Diamond Bracelet
Located in Boston, MA
Vintage 18k yellow gold Link and Diamond Bracelet. The 18k solid gold link bracelet has a textured design. There are 12 round brilliant di...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Faye Kim 18K Green Gold Chain Link Bracelet, Contemporary Design, USA
By Faye Kim
Located in Darien, CT
Handmade in 18K Green Gold, Faye Kim's chain link is bracelet is planished and matte-finished for a fresh, modern feel. The safety clasp adds extra security and can be used to display a variety of charms to help personalize your look. Photographed with 18K Gold & Diamond Dog Charm...
Gold, 18k Gold
Hermes 18K Rose Gold Medium Link Toggle Link Bracelet
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
A striking and elegant bracelet from Hermès, crafted in luminous 18K rose gold and designed with the sought-after medium links in a sleek, high-polish finish. The silhouette is bold ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Mauboussin Diamond Link Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold
By Mauboussin
Located in Dallas, TX
Mauboussin Diamond Link Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold. The bracelet features approximately 2ctw of round diamonds. 6.5" Length, 0.25" Wide, 25.4 Grams
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Hermès 18k 3 Color Gold Small Circle Link Bracelet
By Hermès
Located in New York City, NY
Fine and scarce 18K three color gold link bracelet by Hermes, circa 1990s. This Hermes link bracelet is a stunning piece of jewelry that is cra...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18k Yellow Gold 3-Row Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This chic vintage bracelet features a 3-row link design crafted in 18k textured yellow gold. 40.7 Gram. Made in United States circa 1980s. Measurements: 0.78" (20mm) width, 7.5" (19....
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Retro 18K Yellow Gold Wide Multi-Link Bracelet
Located in Miami, FL
This bold and beautifully textured vintage bracelet features a wide multi-link design set in 18K yellow gold. With a striking 1.4-inch width and secure box clasp, it exudes a retro e...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chanel Ultra Collection 18K White Gold and White Ceramic Flexible Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A striking and modern authentic flexible link bracelet from the iconic "Ultra" collection by Chanel. An exquisite masterclass in geometric contrast and contemporary luxury, this pie...
White Gold
Chanel bracelet by Robert Goossens 1970s
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - A Collection circa 1970 by Robert Goossens for Chanel. Golden metal bangle bracelet with two lion heads. Made in France. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Circumf...
Gilt Metal
Chanel bakelite bracelet 1985
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Tortoiseshell bakelite bracelet topped with tiny glass paste cabochons in red, green, purple, and amber-color. A 1985 Collection under the artistic directio...
Chanel braelet coco era 1950s
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - Openwork golden metal bracelet decorated with rhinestones and costume pearls. Jewelry from the Coco era circa 1950. Condition: Good condition Dimensions: Wrist circumferen...
Gilt Metal
Chanel pair of bracelets
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Golden metal pair of bracelets with glass paste. A Collection from the 1980s. Only one bracelet has a signature. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions...
Gilt Metal
Chanel bracelet 2021
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Champagne metal articulated bracelet with pastel-color rhinestones. A 2021 Collection under the artistic direction of Virginie Viard. Condition: Very good ...
Chanel Gold CC Turnlock Chain Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Pasadena, CA
Chanel Gold CC Turnlock Chain Bracelet *Marked 12 *Made in Italy -It is approximately 6.75" long. -CC pendant is approximately 0.6" x 0.5". -This style comes with 2 sizes, this is ...
Gold Plate
Chanel Rare Gold Plated Chanel Bar Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Pasadena, CA
Chanel Rare Gold Plated Chanel Bar Bracelet *Marked Chanel *Made in France *Comes with the original box -It is approximately 7.5" long. -It is in an excellent vintage condition. ...
Gold Plate
Chanel Golden Metal Turnlock Bracelet, 1996
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Chanel - (Made in France) Golden metal turnlock bracelet. 1996 Fall-Winter Collection. To be mentioned, some marks on the golden material. Additional information: Condition: Good co...
Chanel cc bracelet
By Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Golden metal rigid bracelet with grey pearlised cabochons. 1995 Fall-Winter Collection under the direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Condition: Very good conditio...
Chanel 1984 Gold Stone Cuff Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This is a beautifully crafted Chanel cuff with great embellishments! It doesn't get better than this chain-link motif bracelet. It is adorned with red stones and has intricate engrav...
Chanel Gold Chain-Link Cuff Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This is a beautifully crafted Chanel cuff bracelet! It doesn't get better than this chain-link motif bracelet with intricate engraving throughout. Pair this bracelet with some Yves S...