Back in Black

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Onyx Things

In recent years, we have noticed a strong trend of sentimentality returning to jewelry.  Customers don’t simply want jewelry that’s pretty…  they long for something with meaning.  The options have expanded far beyond a mother’s ring with a birthstone representing each of her children or grandchildren.  Photos can be etched onto precious metals, fingerprints are engraved onto pendants and rings, you can even forever preserve the handwriting of a loved on a bracelet or charm.  The inclination has gone a step further, reviving antique mourning jewelry.  Cremation urn necklaces and memorial lockets are often requested.

This trend is hardly new.  In fact, it’s a centuries old tradition.  In 1861, a great love story came to a tragic end…  Prince Albert died, leaving Victoria a grieving widow. Her bereavement was so deep, she commanded that the entire country mourn with her.  Draped in black from head to toe, even Victoria’s jewelry was black.  Although the concept of mourning jewelry wasn’t invented by Victoria, she definitely took it to a new level.  

Fashion embraced death.  Mourning jewelry was the height of style during the late 1800’s.  These earrings are a classic example.  Made from 14 karat yellow gold, the chandelier style is bold, dramatic and distinctly Victorian.  Beginning with a pair of kidney-shaped wires, these beauties are over two inches in length.  With multiple joints, they swing and sway with face-framing geometric glory.  

A perfectly round bead crowns a triangular piece of faceted onyx.  Coming to a crisp peak, this symmetrical shape is set with a milgrain-edged bezel.  Hanging from the base of the equilateral triangle is a trio of glossy black drops.  Each one features a smooth polished gold cap.  A delicate cable chain loops between them, adding a hint of flair to the otherwise simplistic design.  One small golden flower decorates the middle of each earring.  The various shapes dangle elegantly, with light reflecting off the surface of every high polished stone.  

Memorialize someone you love with these Victorian mourning earrings made in the 1890’s… available now for just $1,150.00.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Fringe Benefits

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Bohemian Things

 For the last three months, I have worn nothing but soft cotton dresses, sandals, oversize hoop earrings and long necklaces.  It’s my go to summer outfit.  All I need to do is swap out the sandals for boots and add a pair of leggings, and the look transfers seamlessly to crisp Autumn weather.

These three necklaces are ideal choices – they work with dresses.  They work with chunky sweaters.  They just work!  They’re a little bit vintage and a little bit bohemian… 

 

I have shown you guys several different conversion pieces, and here are two more…  The large amethyst and seed pearl center section was probably once a brooch – but now is the star of this necklace.  By adding some faceted amethyst beads, engraved silver accents, and a pearl tassel – suddenly, it’s current and trendy with a little antique appeal.  Available now for $2700.  The second piece was created by combining a single Victorian chandelier earring with a modern seed pearl tassel.  It can be yours for just $1700.

I am in love with this authentic 1920’s woven piece!  From the checkerboard patterns to the tips of that fringe at the bottom – it amazes me how something that’s nearly 100 years old can be so contemporary and chic…  all yours for just $1750.00.

Take your wardrobe to the next level with a one of a kind piece from Joden. 

Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch. 

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

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