Monthly Archive: June 2019

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 68

June 27, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Joe’s Special Box is a virtual treasure trove of super sweet vintage jewels. What was once a small square box has now become three overflowing bins… one of which is nothing but rings. Dainty Edwardian charmers, Art Deco gems and a few Victorian beauties like this one.

Made in England in 1887, this 15 karat yellow gold enchantress is absolutely perfect. Set in a diagonal swirl across the center are an alternating series of three natural pearls and a two bright red rubies. Engraved scrolls fan out from the center section adding another layer of dimension. A series of hallmarks are deeply etched into the inside shank of the piece, ensuring the karatage as well as the age of this 19th century prize. The gold is silky smooth and glides over the knuckle to sit comfortably on any hand. I love it on an index or middle finger. The condition is mint – a pleasant surprise for a 132 year old ring. Add it to your collection now for now for just $680.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

His and Hers – Volume Three

December 6, 2022June 27, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Traditional Things

I have been wearing a wedding band for nearly 19 years… even when I don’t have it on, there is a dent in my finger where my ring usually resides. It is a visual reminder of a promise, a commitment… a vow made and kept. My hubby has always worked with his hands, he’s blue collar through and through. As such, he rarely wears his wedding band. When he does, it gives me a little thrill to see it there – the warm golden color against his calloused working man hand.

While the tradition of a wedding ring has been in existence for over 3000 years, the history of men’s bands is much more recent. In the United States, it was commonplace for a woman to wear a ring, but not a man. However, in the early 1940’s with the advent of WWII, soldiers began wearing a ring. They wanted to be reminded of their wives and families back home. The fad continued into the Korean War. After that, it seemed the trend had become tradition.

“ABS to WEL – June 4, 1907” and “WEL to ABS – June 4, 1907”

The classically simple design of this matched pair of gold bands captured my heart as soon as I found them. As I scooped them out of the scrap box (jewelry destined for the melting pot), I was drawn to the natural patina that developed from years of wear. Thousands of tiny scratches cover the surface of each one, giving the gold a soft look. Then, I saw the inscriptions inside, and my heartstrings tugged a bit more. Finally, I slid the smaller of the two over my knuckle… a perfect fit.

On June 4, 1907 (a Tuesday), these two lovebirds tied the knot. At a time when wedding bands were really only for the ladies, these two were so in love that they both wanted a ring. ABS and WEL wanted that outward sign for all to see… a golden circle with no beginning and no end.

No end indeed. The scrap box is a little lighter today. These beauties have been rescued and are available in our store!

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 67

June 19, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

As soon as I saw this delicate little necklace (curled up in a pile of golden deliciousness on Joe’s desk), I nabbed it. I am ALWAYS on the lookout for blog pieces… it’s a never-ending quest. Even now, after more than 200 blogs later, I still can’t guess which pieces will resound with you. Instead, I choose the things that speak to me and hope that somehow they will appeal to you as well.

And so, here we are with this late Victorian gem. Twenty-five golden pins dangle from an interlocking cable link chain. They graduate in size, with the largest one in the center. It measures approximately one inch in length, and the smallest one is just a half inch. It lays perfectly on the neck – a requisite for me. Comfort is key. Usually, by the end of the workday, I have discarded my jewelry in a tiny pile on the corner of my desk… hoop earrings that got too heavy, a bracelet that clanged against my keyboard, or perhaps a ring that wore out it’s welcome on my hand. But this beauty has been clasped around my neck for nearly four hours now and I barely know it’s there. It’s effortless. And that is something to smile about. Make it yours for just $740.00.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Baubles, Bling, and Traditional Things

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

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