Ring Around the Rosie

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Flowery Things

A quick glance out the window reveals a just a hint of the mounds of snow and ice that continue to accumulate.  It’s February in western Pennsylvania and this weather is common.  Living on the snowbelt is a conundrum in and of itself.  The first snow is magical…  a cleansing blanket of white that envelops everything it touches.  When I was younger, it offered the promise of sled riding, snowball fights and perhaps the elusive snow day.  But today, in the midst of yet another major storm, I find myself longing for the warmth of the sun. 

With millions of white flakes falling from the sky, it seems unlikely that I’ll get my wish today.  Instead, I have soothed my soul with these cheerfully bright flowers.  The simple wreathlike design allows the gemstones to truly shine.  Constructed from 18 karat yellow gold, the brooch is a endless circle comprised of nine five-petaled blossoms.

Shown here on a neutral beige cardigan, the bold primary colors radiate joy.  There are twenty- four round brilliant diamonds not only colorless but also in shades of yellow and cinnamon; these diamonds have a combined weight of 3.00 carats.  Additionally, there are twelve emeralds weighing .85 carat, twelve crimson rubies weighing .90 carat and seven blue sapphires that weigh .65 carat.  Each color is more vibrant than the last.

Brooches are so under-utilized!  They aren’t just for cardigans or lapels (although those are still great options).  Pin this beauty on a length of ribbon to tie around your neck or wrist or clasp it onto your favorite scarf.  It’s the perfect hair accessory when you hook it onto a padded headband.  Brooches can accessorize a handbag, even a shoe or boot.  The possibilities really are endless.  

Made in the 1970’s or 1980’s, this vivid vintage brooch is priced at $4,750.00.  Bring some color into your life with this bold and beautiful modern piece.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Masriera Masterpieces

Joden Girl

Dragonflies, Florals and Earthly Things

“Every piece that comes out of workshops is intended to be an artistic expression stemming from the essence of our culture.

A culture with the Mediterranean as its backdrop. We seek perfection in everything we do and create our pieces, always under the rubric of their contemporary style. A philosophy borne out of our workshops, passed down from generation to generation that has continued up until today.”

These words have been taken directly from the Masriera site and highlight all that is desirable about their extraordinary jewels.  The name “Masriera” has become synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and breathtaking creations that harken back to the late 19th century when Art Nouveau style reigned supreme.

One of the shorter periods in jewelry history, Art Nouveau began around 1890 and continued on for the next twenty years.  It was a celebration of the female form and all things found in nature – flowers, vines, insects, serpents, and leaves.  High karat yellow gold with a matte finish was often the backdrop for multicolored enamels, giving the pieces lifelike appeal.  Rene Lalique, Louis Comfort Tiffany, and Lluis Masriera were connoisseurs of the craft.

At Joden, we have a handful of these whimsical wonders.  I love the delicacy of this sweet bee ring.  A rich purple amethyst and a tiny diamond make up the body of the insect while the wings are made from black and opalescent white plique a jour enameling.  It sits perfectly on the finger…  now just $1000.

The next tempting treat is a pendant/brooch combination.  A brightly colored dragonfly sips the nectar from the lotus blossom…  simply charming!  The chain is easily removed from the piece to convert it to a brooch.  This engaging enchantress is available on our site – $5000.

Finally, we have my favorite piece – a daisy chain style bracelet.  The buttery 18 karat yellow gold has a wonderful bisque finish that is the perfect compliment to the pastel colored enamel of each flower…  yellow, lavender, pink, and blue.  Each of the seventeen blossoms has a round brilliant diamond center.  It’s a happy bracelet – I smile every time I look at it.  Please call for additional details.

In the hustle and bustle of today’s world, it’s rare to find a company that honors their old world heritage with superior craftsmanship and a faithful expression of quality.  Over 178 years later, and Masriera is still doing it right.

Each piece is individually numbered and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and the original trademarked Masriera packaging.

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Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

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