Joe’s Special Box – Volume 50

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

There’s no question, some of the pieces in our collection that inspire the most reactions are scarabs.  Whether they’re genuine scarab beetles or stone carvings, our customers love them.  Deeply rooted in mystique and symbolic allure, this ancient bug has captivated cultures and dynasties for hundreds of years.  For centuries, craftsmen have integrated natural scarabs into jewels and countless others carved gemstones into this talisman.  

Some artisans utilized steatite and pottery and then coated it with layers of glaze, usually in shades of blue and green…  like this one.  While the top of each scarab is carved to replicate the actual beetle, the back of each is often engraved with names, sacred animals, or religious symbols.  The most common themes include rebirth, immortality, and resurrection.  I am obsessed with the “flip” feature of this ring…  the center rotates allowing the wearer to see the beauty in the front and back of the piece.  This ring is most likely from the Egyptian Revival period, dating to the end of the 1800’s.  It’s moderately priced at $500 and can be found in Joe’s Special Box.  

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 49

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

One of the questions that we get asked most often is “Where do you get your jewelry?”  There isn’t a simple answer, the truth is that sometimes the treasures find us and sometimes we find them.  Last month, Joe went in search of some new baubles and bling at the Original Miami Beach Antique Show.  We’ve been attending this show for more than thirty years.  It’s an annual opportunity to add unique gems to our already spectacular collection.  Upon his return, we are always excited to see all the things that Joe has brought with him.  From a 14.00 carat diamond to this tiny ring, each one was “Oh So Joden”.  This little ring was one of my favorite finds…  and clearly one of Joe’s as well, considering it’s now in his Special Box.  A scalloped flower was created utilizing seven rose cut diamonds.  These diamonds are surrounded by a halo of fancy cut rubies, providing a much needed pop of color!  It fits perfectly on any finger from the index to the pinky and is moderately priced at $1600.  Visit us at Joden and see what other riches came home to Pennsylvania.  

We went to Miami to shop so you could come to Joden and touch.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

A Queen Returns

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and 2019 Things

It’s February and the trends for 2019 are popping up everywhere…  I’ve seen and heard them all; colored stone trim set in bold yellow gold (how very 1985!), mixed metals – platinum and 18 karat yellow gold is my fave, and the biggest craze from this year is the comeback of the marquise diamond.  This elongated, elegant beauty will once again reign supreme!

The bridal set shown here is a real showstopper – I’ve fallen a little in love with it.  Even now, as my fingers strike the keys, it’s standing tall and proud on my ring finger (I need to wear it for inspiration, right?)!

I have to say, this pair of rings is spectacular from every angle.  The engagement ring features a double loop design that lifts the center diamond to dazzling heights.  And what a diamond it is…  this perfectly shaped marquise tips the scale at 1.26 carats.  This nearly colorless gem is accented by an additional forty-six round brilliant diamonds that have a combined weight of .58 carats.  That’s 1.84 carats of bling!  

It breaks all of my rules… 

  • No fitted band
  • A Tolkowsky Cut center diamond is preferred
  • Low profile
  • No matching set

And yet, I am crazy about it! 

  • Typically, I vote against fitted bands.  I don’t mind small gaps between rings, actually, I like the separation.  However, the wedding band in this duo is notched to fit snugly with the engagement ring and it’s ideal, keeping them locked together.
  • While a Tolkowsky-Cut stone will always be my first choice, this shapely diamond is exquisitely beautiful.  In fact, it’s just as nice as a right-hand ring…  wink wink!
  • When a center stone sits high on a ring, I usually worry about it getting a lot of wear and tear.  However, this set is made entirely of platinum.  The diamond is well protected in this unique double loop setting with a pair of V-shaped prongs on each tip.  It’s strong and secure.
  • I like things that go together, but are not usually what I call “matchy-matchy”.  In this particular case, I must admit that I prefer the matched style…  and those heavily engraved edges!  LOVE!  It adds a vintage flair to an otherwise modern style.  

Here’s my point…  when looking for a new piece of jewelry, be open-minded!  Look at all of the options.  You never know when something will catch you by surprise like this ring did for me!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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