Monthly Archive: September 2024 | Page 3

Too Suite – Volume Seven

October 10, 2024September 9, 2024 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Matching Things

I am completely smitten with Mid Century Modern jewelry… over the last few months, everything else has fallen by the wayside. I love the bold and uninhibited lines. I love the whimsical style and the vibrant colors. Call it mid-century madness (I am almost fifty!); I simply cannot resist… give me all the MCM jewels!

Whether you were donning a matching pencil skirt and crop-sleeved jacket or sporting your favorite pastel sweater twin-set – this latest suite was ideal accessory. Although it was created in the 1950’s, it is still every bit as relevant today. A bold pair, this brooch and matching earrings would look great pinned to a cape for fall or even mated with a classic leather jacket. When jewelry is this good – it NEVER goes out of style.

Measuring 1.5 inches in any direction, this 14-karat yellow gold brooch adds the perfect touch of texture and shine to your fall wardrobe. Taking the shape of an equal-armed cross or a plus sign, this gemmed pin features a dual-forked stem. This is a mark of quality jewelry; the twin pin stems adds the support and stability needed to show this beauty off to it’s best advantage. The four arms are gently contoured with a dimensional ribbed surface. Sitting pretty in the center is an equally lovely amethyst.

Emerald cut in shape, this rectangular stunner weighs approximately 8.00 carats and offers a delightful lavender hue. Juxtaposed with the amethyst are four cabochon rubies; one is centered on each side of the amethyst. These rubies have a combined weight of 1.00 carat. Purple and red are an unusual color combination, but it’s perfect for fall! This suite also offers earrings to wear with the brooch or even on their own for a more casual appeal. Made in the same shape except smaller, these earrings feature a narrow wire that slides through the ear.

Measuring approximately one inch from side to side and top to bottom, these earrings are comfortable and easy to wear. Each one features a four-square of round amethyst gems in the center. Combined, these stones have a weight of .75 carat. I love that the earrings are the same as the brooch, and yet different. They’re complementary without being matchy-matchy.

If you’ve been looking for something fabulous for fall or a fresh statement suite, this delightful duo is priced right at $3,250.00. Get a little Mid Century Modern madness in your life – it’s just too good to miss!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

The Color of Edwardian

September 6, 2024 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and an Edwardian Ring

Often, the Edwardian Era is defined by the years between 1901-1910. However, there is always a crossover period… a time when the style of one period influences and flows over into the next. This is perhaps most evident in the years between Edwardian and Art Deco. Many sources state that the Deco period began in 1919 and ended in 1939. As you may have noticed, there is a nine year gap between the two eras. Those years aren’t lost – it’s simply a time when Edwardian nuances developed into Art Deco ideals.

Most of the jewelry from the very early 1900’s is monochromatic. Made almost entirely of platinum and decorated with diamonds and pearls, this jewelry is predominantly white in color. Marked by the reign of King Edward VII, the time was shaped by his laidback yet extravagant lifestyle. Fashionable accessories were laden with bows, ribbons, floral garlands and everything romantic. Tassels and lace provided inspiration for clothing ateliers and jewelers.

I couldn’t resist the romantic allure of this delicate darling. Platinum filigree creates a lovely metallic lace setting for this 1915 piece. Surrounding the center of the ring is an ornate framework that culminates in a pair of stylized bows with long tails that cascade down the shoulders. Classic Edwardian elements are evidenced by the tiny beaded edges, hand-engraved shank, and pierced cut-outs. The epitome of elegance, this ring showcases everything that the Edwardian era is famous for.

Fifty-two European cut diamonds cover the low-profile surface, bringing .75 carat of brilliant shimmer to the platinum setting. All of this elaborate decor serves to highlight the bright center stone. Nestled within the original bezel is one natural deep blue sapphire. This cobalt-colored gem is round in shape and weighs approximately 1.15 carats. It is relatively clean internally with just a few small marks on the surface. The rich blue color is what makes the stone shine – with flashes of navy, this medium-blue sapphire is stunning. However, it is interesting to note that it is not original to the ring. Perhaps you remember me mentioning that Edwardian jewelry is often monochromatically white in color – that includes the metal and the gemstones. It’s quite rare to have a colored center stone in an early 1900’s ring; more than likely, this beauty likely held a diamond when it was created.

Shown on the hand, this Edwardian enchantress is quite an eyeful. Currently measuring a finger size 7.75, this ring can be sized. The latest addition to our website, it’s moderately priced at $3,350.00. If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect antique sapphire and diamond ring, look no more.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

This or That – Volume 14

October 19, 2024September 3, 2024 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Symbolic Things

Egyptomania… a new word for me, but clearly self-explanatory. It describes an obsession with all things Egyptian; it has been a recurring theme throughout history dating back to 1700’s. Countless books have been written detailing the adventures of Napoleon Bonaparte, the Rosetta stone, and so much more. It seemed no one was immune to the allure of Egyptian culture – artisans and jewelers were particularly smitten. By the mid-1800’s, there was a decidedly Egyptian influence in the jewelry of the time.

As the craze grew, there were additional expeditions into Egypt. Archaeologists sought treasures in the tombs of the Pharaohs. Even the most famous jewelry houses were not immune. The Egyptian influence was evident in the works of Boucheron, Mellerio, Castellani and Giuliano. Egyptomania, indeed.

Recently, we acquired a petite, colorful brooch. Depicting a falcon in profile, this small pin features the art of cloisonné enamel. This decorative style of enamel is accomplished by placing flattened strips of gold wire edgewise, creating separate compartments. The spaces are filled with a kaleidoscope of color in the form of enamel. From one wing to the other, our falcon measures just 1.5 inches.

The falcon was a recurring theme in ancient Egyptian art. With long wings, a short tail and powerful chest muscles, the falcon was a well equipped hunter. Fast, fierce and powerful, it is considered to be the king of birds. Highly detailed, this brooch comes to life with red, white, turquoise and green enamel. It is in pristine condition and is available for $2400.00.

The moment I saw the falcon, it immediately reminded me of another Egyptian revival brooch in our collection. It, too is petite in size.

Centering on the face of King Tutankhamun, this miniature work of art is also winged. Spanning out from King Tut’s head are a pair of diamond tipped wings. Each one is decorated with blue and white cloisonné enamel. Four tiny rose cut diamonds add a hint of sparkle to this remarkable piece. Available on our site for just $1,250.00, it’s every bit as enchanting as the falcon.

Paired, these brooches are magnificent. The colors play well off of each other and the Egyptian theme is quite evident. Individually, they’re also charming. I simply cannot decide which one I like best – this falcon pin or that King Tut brooch? What do you think… this or that?

“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 Matching Things

Baubles, Bling and an Edwardian Ring

Baubles, Bling and Symbolic Things

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