ANTIQUE RUBY AND DIAMOND SNAKE BANGLE BRACELET, F.W. LAWRENCE

Frank Walter Lawrence (November 2, 1864 - March 10, 1929) was an important American jeweler during the Arts & Crafts movement at the turn of the 20th century. Known as F.W. Lawrence, he apprenticed with several jewelry and silver manufacturing firms in the New York City and Newark, New Jersey area. In 1889, Lawrence opened his first business in Newark and shortly thereafter relocated to New York City.

Lawrence’s designs focused on natural themes, including highly realistic plants and animals. Given their dimensionality and craftsmanship, his pieces are often regarded as wearable sculptures. Early in Lawrence’s career, he partnered with Gustav Manz, a manufacturing jeweler, who embraced and adapted Lawrence’s style for larger clients, including Tiffany & Co., Black, Starr and Frost, and Raymond Yard. In addition to this partnership, Lawrence produced pieces for his own firm. A brooch attributed to him in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection is considered representative of the Art & Crafts movement. Lawrence’s pieces are recognized today for their sculptural aesthetic and natural motifs.