A Thing of Beauty

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and a Perfectly Lovely Ring

We love sharing “WOW” pieces…  those breath-taking jewels that our followers go crazy for.  These are the true one-of-a-kind antique wonders, the larger-than-life diamond rings, and phenomenal gem-fine colored stones.  Often, these are the posts that blow-up… there will be countless likes, endless comments and more than one private message.  The comments range anywhere from the most mundane “beautiful” to a snarky “too rich for my blood”.  Showstoppers like this get shared multiple times with similar results.  Often placed with private collector and select clientele, we sell our share of those rare beauties.  

However, there’s no question that the posts that sell themselves are the unique diamond bands.  Whether it be Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco, these whimsical darlings sell every single time.  There’s something so appealing about the history that could be wrapped up in a vintage wedding or anniversary band!  Dana and I always have an eye out for bands with unusual details like flowers, bows, or engraving like this sweet little ring.  

Crafted in the late 1930’s, this three-stone style band is made from 14-karat white gold.  Three European cut diamonds span the center, each one prong set inside a square border.  An additional pair of single-cut diamonds are set on the outermost edges of this trio.  Combined, these five diamonds have a total weight of 1.00 carat.  Near colorless, these diamonds have an average clarity grade of SI1-2.  The shoulders of the ring are decorated with milgrain beaded lines, delicate scrollwork and tiny clusters of white gold beads.  

On the hand, this Art Deco band offers great presence.  It can be worn alone, or stacked with one or two of your favorite rings.  Currently measuring a size 6.75, our expert jeweler can fit it to nearly any finger.  Living in a throw-away society has really made us appreciate the craftsmanship of eras gone by.  Instead of buying something brand new, choose the value and chic style offered by a great piece of estate jewelry… a thing of beauty.  With decades of life left in it, this diamond band is priced at just $1,750.00!  Soon to be added to our website, check it out while it’s still available!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Well Done, Young Grasshopper

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Insect Things

During times of upheaval and unrest, it’s common for people to look for something that brings them a feeling of inner peace – a tangible good luck charm that offers good vibes.  For thousands of years, animals have been associated with countless things, some good and some bad.  Birds are often associated with freedom, the bull is a symbol of virility and wealth while the bear is associated with strength and power.  

Rich with metaphors, the animal kingdom has always served as a source of inspiration for artisans and jewelers.  The panther belongs to Cartier, the serpent is richly woven into the aesthetic of Bvlgari, and Van Cleef & Arpels celebrates the resurrective power of butterflies.  Even costume jewelry leans on the animal world to spark an idea.  Coro, Trefari, Avon and so many others boast animals brooches, rings and necklaces.

This whimsical grasshopper brooch is truly remarkable.  He is full of personality and playful color.  Wonderfully crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, this charming insect is true to life.  The powerful back legs, long antennas, and articulated body are the ideal framework for the majestic wings. 

Showcasing every color in the rainbow, these ethereal wings are made using the art of Plique Á Jour enamel.  Much like a stained glass window, the artist created the outline of the wings with 18-karat gold wire.  Each aperture has been filled with beautifully colored enamel.  When the light shines through, each shade comes to life like a kaleidoscope. 

Perceived to be a talisman of good luck and prosperity, the grasshopper is an ideal companion in today’s world.  There’s no question that the future isn’t always certain, having a symbol of transformation and hope for a new beginning just might bring a little peace of mind.  If you’re as enchanted by our little friend as we are, you can make him yours for just $3,250.00.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Signature Series – Volume 22

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Quality Things

“Since 1854, we at Gübelin strongly believe that true luxury

lies in the uniting of inner beauty and deep knowledge.”

Partners Mauritz Breitschmid and Eduard Jakob Gübelin were jointly managing their growing watchmaker’s shop.  More than partners, these two men were not only master and apprentice but also father and son-in-law.  In their 170-year history, the House of Gübelin has always been a family business.  Even now, six generations later, the legacy continues with Raphael and his wife, Wilvy.

The iconic design house has always been motivated by three things: expertise, authenticity and inspiration.  Extensive training, education and deep passion guide every hand and heart of the experts at Gübelin.  Just as essential to the success of this Swiss House is authenticity.  They believe in doing everything the right way; they continue to celebrate the time-honored craft of fine jewelry making.  Anchoring both the expertise and authenticity of this legendary company is a deeply rooted sense of inspiration.  Each member of the Gübelin family is immensely passionate about making beautiful things.

A recent acquisition, this 18-karat yellow gold bracelet immediately caught my eye.  At a glance, it seems simple.  However, a closer inspection reveals the artistry that went into the making of this Mid Century Modern vision.  Measuring a fraction over seven inches, the piece flexes and moves beautifully.  Twenty-eight individual links comprise the length, alternately set with deep red rubies and blue-green turquoise.

Each gem-set link is artfully paired with a textured gold link.  Contoured and ribbed, these gold links stand in stark contrast to their bold colored-stone partners.  Trios of rubies and turquoise are enveloped with a border of twisted gold braid.  Ruby is the signature stone of the House of Gübelin.  Often associated with the romantic notions of love and passion, rubies are cleverly incorporated into each piece of precious jewelry.  Forty-two round rubies offer a combined weight of approximately 1.25 carats.  Balancing them out are forty-two cabochon turquoise.  Skillfully hidden into the bracelet is a box clasp; hand-etched onto the back of the clasp is a serial number and just one word – Gübelin.  

On the wrist, this bracelet is effortless.  It moves with the body and feels good on.  Classic elegance pairs with vintage flair; the vibe is timeless and chic.  The quality the House of Gübelin is synonymous with is evident in the wear-ability and weighty feel of the bracelet.  Today, in the era of fast fashion and throw-away culture, a true piece of heirloom-quality fine jewelry stands alone.  Moderately priced at $4500.00, it’s the latest addition to our estate department.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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