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Pick of the Week – Volume 66

January 24, 2025 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles and Bling with Unbelievable Pricing

This special edition of our weekly blog postings is reserved for true treasures that have been a part of our collection for an extended period of time. These old favorites have long been overlooked for one reason or another. This week’s selection is so lovely, I cannot fathom why we still have it. In fact, I’m completely mystified.

Albeit sizable, this Edwardian pendant offers ethereal charm from every angle. Because it was created from platinum, a dense and very ductile precious metal, the artist was able to achieve a light and airy framework. Platinum, strong and malleable, was the only choice to craft the delicate, lacy patterns that early 20th century jewelry was known for. Studying the pendant from behind, there is no doubt that the framework was made specifically for a uniquely cut gem.

The overall shape of the pendant resembles a heart (minus the divot at the top) with swirling vines and scintillating sparkle. Seventy-three rose cut diamonds are sprinkled throughout the filigree frame; combined, these diamonds have a total weight of 1.25 carats. As I mentioned before, this framework was made with a very specifically-shaped spot in the center… the hexagonal hole has been set with a deep purple step-cut amethyst. The color of royalty and weighing approximately 25.00 carats, this gemstone is the crowning glory of this Edwardian pendant.

We have had this beauty for some time, in fact, I blogged about it once before in a post titled “Feeling Fancy Friday“. We have paired it with a vintage 14-karat white gold chain that measures 24-inches in length. The chain features an alternating pattern of elongated open links and oval links with scrolled centers. The pendant could also be worn on a short chain for an evening look. It’s hard to believe that no one has snagged this antique treasure! The only objection I can imagine anyone making would be the price. And so, we’ve decided to remedy that. Previously available on our site for $5,650.00, we are now offering it for just $4,750.00! If you’ve had your eye on this old favorite, now is the time to make it yours. ♥

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photography by Dana Jerpe

Signature Series – Volume 28

January 20, 2025 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Quality Things

For one hundred and forty years, the jewelry created by Carrera y Carrera has captured hearts around the world. From a very humble beginning in 1885, the talent and passion of a young jeweler became the driving force that would create an iconic brand. Saturio Esteban absorbed the bohemian spirit of Las Letras (a district in the heart of Madrid, Spain) and let it flow through his hands and into his designs.

The imaginative style of this family-owned business runs the gambit from classically traditional to whimsically figurative. Utilizing a myriad of textures and finishes, the many faces of Carrera y Carrera are captivating. During their long history, millions have fallen in love with their crocodiles, tigers, lions, eagles, snakes and dragons.

Recently, we acquired a small collection of Carrera y Carrera pieces. I’ve selected my favorite to share with you. Admittedly, swans are a bit tame in comparison to their more wild creatures; however, they are every bit as beautiful. They’re quite romantic as well. These majestic birds court each other with a special dance, and ultimately mate for life. Sculpted into earrings, our swans are perfectly sized, measuring less than an inch from the tip of the wing to the bottom of the creamy pearl. Organically shaped, the freshwater pearl fills the body of the bird while a high-polished wing sweeps up and back. Nine round brilliant diamonds are nestled into the feathered body of each swan; combined these eighteen gems have a total weight of .30 carat. The strong curve of the neck and head showcase a wonderfully soft, muted texture while a bright ruby eye gives a coy wink.

Omega backs ensure that these earrings sit properly on the lobe. There’s no movement or sagging… the superior craftsmanship is evident in every piece of Carrera y Carrera jewelry. Whether it be mechanical or aesthetic, these other-worldly creations are true perfection. Moderately priced at $2,900.00, these earrings are our favorite recent acquisition. If you’re as charmed as we are and are looking for the perfect give for your mate; give us a call to make them yours.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photography by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 158

January 17, 2025 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Here in Pennsylvania, it’s very cold. Over the next few days, the weatherman is calling for the temperature to dip below zero. And since I haven’t hit the lottery (probably because I don’t play the lottery), I still have to go to work. Heading out in subzero temperatures can only mean one thing… it’s sweater weather! One of my favorite things about bundling up in a thick, cozy sweater is accessorizing. A turtleneck is the perfect place to showcase a pretty little pin… and this dainty charmer is SO good!

Measuring just over an inch from side to side, this turn-of-the-century brooch is ideally sized. Shown from behind, the rich hue of the gold framework features a lovely patina that darkens the color. Taking the shape of a sideways navette, the center segment also boasts a glass-covered hair receiver. Beneath the glass, the woven ivory fabric is still pristine – with nary a hair in sight. This tiny compartment has never been used. Note the beautiful scallops that envelop the outer edge. Six carefully sculpted contours have been intricately set with five seed pearls in each one.

My favorite detail of this pin is the lovely enameling that decorates the front. A deep garnet-colored enamel done in guilloche fashion coats the center. Small, regular hashmarks were etched into the surface of the gold before the enamel was applied. Because the enamel is translucent, this subtle patterning can be appreciated through the enamel. A slightly raised border fully surrounds the center; it has been coated with an opaque white enamel. Evenly spaced on top of the white enamel are sixteen minute black dots… a small detail that makes all the difference.

Splayed across the top of the red enamel is a singular flower. Made from various sizes of creamy seed pearls, this five-petaled blossom is like the icing on a cake – finishing the brooch to perfection. Beautifully made and utterly feminine, this piece can be enjoyed all year long. Pin it to your sweaters in the winter, jackets in the spring and fall, and on a collar or cuff in the summer. Moderately priced at $1500, this pin brings a welcome pop of color on a cold January day.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photography by Dana Jerpe

Baubles and Bling with Unbelievable Pricing

Baubles, Bling and Quality Things

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

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