15 karat gold Archive

Pretty Peridot

August 5, 2024 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Botanical Things

Now that August is upon us, let’s talk about the birthstone for this month… peridot. Glowing with a bright lime green hue, this gemstone forms deep inside the Earth’s mantle and is only brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot only comes in one color. It ranges in hue from a soft yellow green to a deep brownish-olive green depending upon how much iron was present when it formed.

Not only is peridot the birthstone for those born in the month of August, it is also chosen to mark the 15th wedding anniversary. Peridot ranges in hardness from a 6.5-7.0 – however, it is sensitive to scratching and fracturing. A protective setting is preferred to maintain the natural beauty of the stone.

The Victorian era celebrated peridot and used it in many pieces of jewelry. This recent acquisition hails from the 1880’s. Made from 15-karat yellow gold (a fineness that was often utilized in England), this lovely pin/pendant boasts a singular oval peridot in the center. A milgrain-edged bezel wraps the entire girdle of the stone, suitable for protecting the gem. The center is further accented by a delicate halo of eighteen natural seed pearls, each one held in place a series of tiny golden prongs.

The peridot centerpiece is crowned with a trio of leaf-like fronds. A long loop drapes from one side to the other completing the wreath that encircles the vibrant green middle. Each portion of the frame is decorated with creamy white seed pearls, just like the ones that surround the peridot. The overall effect is ethereal and more than a little lovely.

Shown from behind, the removable bail is placed to the side. This allows the jewel to worn as a brooch. Alternately, a simple gold chain could slide through the bail, thus permitting the piece to be worn as a pendant. The ability to be worn in multiple ways was common in Victorian jewelry. The color palette of this antique charmer (the warm gold, the creamy pearls and the bright celery green) complement every season. Moderately priced at $2,450.00, it will quickly become a favorite that you reach for over and over. Call to make it yours today.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Words of Inspiration

January 20, 2023 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Victorian Things

If you’ve visited our showroom or perused our website, you know the kind of things we have. Our store has been described as an encounter that transcends time with a collection that allows you to explore the beauty of past generations. After nearly fifty-three years, our motto continues to hold true…

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

Although we are rooted within this exceptional selection – it can still be difficult to describe. It’s a challenge to put words to the artistry and beauty within each piece. And yet, each week, I strive to do just that. Luckily, I don’t have to take the photos… what Dana is able to accomplish with a simple iPhone or with our camera is absolutely amazing. Her photos motivate me to provide the words… I’m a writer, a wordsmith, a story-teller – perhaps even a fledgling artist.

This entry marks the 577th blog… counting thousands, even millions of words. Occasionally, I experience writers block. No matter how hard I bang my head against the proverbial wall – my brain and fingers don’t want to cooperate. Seeking a spark of illumination, I showed this week’s selection to my coworkers. They are my cohorts and partners in crime; collectively known as “the girls”. I asked each of them to tell me what their favorite part of the necklace was.

Dana referenced the stone combination of peridot and pearl… stating that the color pairing of the spring green and luminous white is one of her favorites. Showcased within this Mid-Victorian layout necklace are three natural peridot: one round, one oval and one cushion. Their chartreuse shade is perfectly accented by the 15-karat yellow gold bezel that encapsulates each one. These stones are interspersed with five small blister pearls (a hollow pearl cut from the shell of an oyster). Chiming in, Debbie mentioned that she too was charmed by the classic color combination. On a side note, she cited the overall shape of the piece… it’s curvaceous lines draw the eye. As a master bench jeweler, she looks at things from a different perspective, making her input even more interesting.

Amy and Beverly both admired the fine wirework and Etruscan swirls. Even when viewed from behind, the complex pattern achieved by alternating singular c-shaped wires, soft curls, complete circles and tiny dots is truly incredible. I love each of those things – I love how the necklace lays on the neck like a dream. I love that it’s in near perfect original condition. But my absolute favorite detail…

This tiny pop of pink! There are three small natural rubies hidden within the golden swirls. If you don’t look closely you might miss them. It’s these particulars, the fine points that are the icing on the cake. Made in the 19th century near 1875, this necklace is available for $5,950.00. Now it’s your turn! Join the girls and share your thoughts. What is your favorite part of this antique enchantress? Like Dana, is it the color? Or maybe you agree with Debbie and enjoy the overall shape? Or perhaps you’re part of team Beverly/Amy and are crazy for the original golden wirework? Hop on over to our Facebook and Instagram stories and cast your vote now!

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

This or That – Volume Two

July 29, 2020 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Beaded Things

With an inventory like ours, where the cases are filled to overflowing – there are always choices. If you’re looking for a sapphire ring, we won’t have just one, more likely we will have one hundred. Joe often boasts that the most unique aspect of Joden is that we truly have something for everyone and every budget. If you visit our showroom we guarantee you’ll fall in love.

It was no surprise to me that within our treasure chest of gems and jewels we have more a handful of Etruscan revival bracelets – my two favorites are available at joden.com. They shared marked similarities and yet each has its own individual personality.

First, we have this beauty. Measuring approximately 3/8 of an inch wide, this 15 karat gold bangle is made to wear.

The top half features classic Etruscan granulation decor – fifteen quatrefoil shapes arch artfully across the wrist. Two parallel milgrain borders complete the look. It’s hinged, offering a securely snapping clasp as well as a safety chain. The pattern is ornate and yet simple enough to wear every day. It could easily become your signature piece, priced at $1,580.00.

And then we have this charmer. It’s 7/8 of an inch of golden deliciousness. A tiny ornate border highlights the outer edges and a singular delicate flower blooms on the exterior perimeter.

Much like the other bangle, this bracelet blend seamlessly into any wardrobe. It pairs perfectly with everything from jeans to dresses, a go-to adornment for every occasion! Priced at $3,150.00, it’s a signature piece that you will enjoy for a lifetime.

And so I ask you, which would you choose? This narrow quatrefoil embellished bangle or that wide golden beauty with floral decor? This or that?

“You can go to our site and look, then come to us and touch.”

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Baubles, Bling and Botanical Things

Baubles, Bling and Victorian Things

Baubles, Bling and Beaded Things

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