Joe’s Special Box – Volume 26

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Check out this little cutie…  at first glance, you would probably think that this is an emerald ring.  It looks like an emerald, and it’s cut like an emerald.  So, it must be an emerald, right?  Wrong.  This tiny sparkler is actually called demantoid – a green variety of garnet.  This gem was discovered in 1868 in Russia…

Here’s a close-up view…  look at this rich color!  This yellow-green shade tends to display more fire, more sparkle than other hues.  The most unique aspect of this stone is actually held inside – it features an unusual type of inclusion; feathery curved threads resembling a horsetail.  Many people value this kind of imperfection because it verifies the pedigree of the demantoid – proving it’s from Russia.  

A heavily engraved solitaire mounting is the perfect accent to this rare garnet.  Made in classic Edwardian style – this 18 karat yellow gold ring features eight claw-like platinum prongs.  They showcase the stone to perfection…  allowing enough natural light underneath.  This demantoid garnet ring truly shines for just $1500.  This piece is another example of the treasures that abound in Joe’s Special Box.  

” You can go to a museum and look, or come to Joden and touch.”

Writing and Photos by Carrie Martin

Go Green

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Colorful Things

What’s the first thing that attracts you to a piece of jewelry?  Are you drawn to sparkle?  Is it design?  Some people love delicate jewels, while others go for physically large chunky pieces.  For me, it is almost always about color.  From the metal to the gems – I love vibrant, rich color!  

That’s what makes Art Nouveau my favorite period…  all those glorious enamels; color on color on color.  This bracelet is an unusual example from that time, dating near the end of the period…  circa 1910.  The two tone metal framework has an Edwardian feel while the Plique-À-Jour style of enameling is decidedly Art Nouveau. 

Shown here from behind, you can see the elaborate structure of the bracelet.  This series of nine identical square-shaped links was handmade…  like a stained glass window, each cell is specifically crafted to enhance the green and gold enamel held inside.

Carefully set on the front of each section are five bezel set diamonds, welded in an equal-armed cross formation.  This symbol is often thought to represent the four seasons…  nature in perfect balance.  Combined with the color green – the hue of life and renewal – this bracelet is truly harmonious.  

This piece is definitely a departure for me…  it’s not what I would call beautiful, but rather handsome.  Being over one hundred years old, this antique is in excellent condition.  From the spiderweb of 18 karat rosy gold underneath to the strong lines of white gold on top – this crossover bracelet is clearly a conversation starter.  Spark a discussion at your house for just $9500.

“You can go to a museum and look, or come to Joden and touch.”

Writing and Photos by Carrie Martin

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 25

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

There’s no question that the most popular vintage jewelry at Joden is from the Art Deco period.  The iconic platinum and white gold jewelry from the 1920-1930’s is highly sought after and offers unique style elements that can’t be found in modern jewelry.  Camphor glass is one such example of this.  It looks like a piece of frosted crystal and is usually set with a singular diamond in the center.  This trend was often combined with fine filigree work to create delicately beautiful jewels.  

This bracelet is a stellar example of both design details – three identical pieces of camphor glass are evenly spaced between thirteen lacy filigree links.  I love the starburst design that seems to spread out from the diamond center of each glass piece.  It’s quite lovely against the skin…  allowing the color to shine through.  This particular bracelet can be found (as you may have guessed) in Joe’s Special Box and is moderately priced at $2500.00.  

“Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch.”

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco and Carrie Martin

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