Joe’s Special Box – Volume 42

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Antique jewelry often needs to be admired from more than one angle.  Artisans hand-crafted each piece with a passion for detail and design.  A gorgeous Siberian Amethyst weighing 14.50 carats brings a bright burst of color to this Art Nouveau charmer.  And while it is truly captivating, it’s not the star of this show.  This is one piece best enjoyed from behind…  it is simply stunning.

Art Nouveau jewelry is a celebration of nature and the female form.  This ring is wholly dedicated to botanical beauty.  Three dimensional articulated leaves and flowers entwine to create a haven for the deep purple gem.  The free-thinking craftsmen of the late 19th century were not fixated on symmetry but rather on the ambiance or feeling evoked by the jewel.  Therefore, it’s no surprise that one side of this ring has but a single blossom while the other has a trio of blooms.  A dark natural patina has developed in the veins of each leaf and the base of each petal adding yet another dimension to this decadent antique ring.  

This is exactly the kind of ring that Joe tucks into his special box.  It has everything…  antique appeal, glorious color, superb craftsmanship, and unmistakable uniqueness.  Rings like this don’t come around very often, and when they do…  Joe has a tendency to squirrel them away!  So, when you visit us at Joden – be sure to ask about Joe’s Special Box and the treasures that hide there.

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

Writing and photos by Carrie Martin

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 29

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

This piece is a home run for me in more ways than one.   A lovely little Art Nouveau gem – meticulously carved from high karat yellow gold.  The intricate basket-weave pattern features soft swirls mixed with textured lines.  Cobalt blue enameling provides a bright pop of color.  Five natural pearls are nestled into the open spaces.  Made around the turn of the 20th century, this pendant could easily become a signature piece in any wardrobe.  The back features a removable glass lid – it covers a compartment that could be used for a photograph, a lock of hair, or both. I love this simple, yet terribly sentimental detail.  It brings to mind the old saying… 

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.”

Wouldn’t this be a perfect gift for a new bride on her wedding day?  I think so!  Personally, I’d be happy to receive it for any reason…  or for no reason at all.  This piece (tucked away in Joe’s Special Box) is available now for $1,280.00.

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

Writing and Photo by Carrie Martin

Go Green

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Colorful Things

What’s the first thing that attracts you to a piece of jewelry?  Are you drawn to sparkle?  Is it design?  Some people love delicate jewels, while others go for physically large chunky pieces.  For me, it is almost always about color.  From the metal to the gems – I love vibrant, rich color!  

That’s what makes Art Nouveau my favorite period…  all those glorious enamels; color on color on color.  This bracelet is an unusual example from that time, dating near the end of the period…  circa 1910.  The two tone metal framework has an Edwardian feel while the Plique-À-Jour style of enameling is decidedly Art Nouveau. 

Shown here from behind, you can see the elaborate structure of the bracelet.  This series of nine identical square-shaped links was handmade…  like a stained glass window, each cell is specifically crafted to enhance the green and gold enamel held inside.

Carefully set on the front of each section are five bezel set diamonds, welded in an equal-armed cross formation.  This symbol is often thought to represent the four seasons…  nature in perfect balance.  Combined with the color green – the hue of life and renewal – this bracelet is truly harmonious.  

This piece is definitely a departure for me…  it’s not what I would call beautiful, but rather handsome.  Being over one hundred years old, this antique is in excellent condition.  From the spiderweb of 18 karat rosy gold underneath to the strong lines of white gold on top – this crossover bracelet is clearly a conversation starter.  Spark a discussion at your house for just $9500.

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

Writing and Photos by Carrie Martin

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