Joe’s Special Box – Volume 162

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Thing

Last week, we shared a piece of jewelry from the Retro era (the late 1930’s-1940’s) – a bold band that is SO good.  Those years not only designated the Retro period but also the Great Depression.  Arguably the most devasting economic downturn in United States history, the depression saw unprecedented unemployment rates, businesses going belly up and a radical decline in economic activity.  It wasn’t until World War II started that things started to turn around.  Preparing for war fueled industrial production which created jobs.  The war efforts also gobbled up all of the platinum using it for manufacturing rifle and engine parts as well as explosives.  Rather than inhibiting jewelers, the loss of platinum inspired them to create an entirely new trend.  By alloying gold with a higher ratio of copper, rose gold entered the picture in a big way.  

The majority of Retro jewelry was big and bold.  Statement pieces were all the rage – gold was manipulated into scrolls and volutes; it was woven, braided and entwined.  There were leaves, ribbons and my favorite… bows.  This simple yet incredibly feminine form has been adorning jewelry for centuries.  Bows were particularly beloved during the Edwardian era.  It came to the forefront once again in the 1940’s.  Vintage bow brooches are readily available as are pendants and necklaces.  But rings are rare.

This sweetheart just arrived and we are in love!  Uncomplicated and effortless in design, this beribboned ring offers endless charm.  Made of 14-karat rose gold, it’s a finger size seven.  It sits perfectly on the index and middle fingers of my left hand.  The knot in the center of the bow is white gold and is set with an Old European Cut diamond that weighs approximately .10 carat.  Adding the perfect amount of sparkle to this triple loop bow.  A small space separates each loop and remnants of the original milgrain beading remain on the edges of those loops.  The tails of the bow drape down the shoulders of the ring, completing the look.

Perfect for so many occasions, this vintage ring is priced at just $465.00.  Although it was well loved by previous owners, there is still plenty of life left in it.  Choose it for any reason or no reason at all – it’s just too sweet to let it go!  Check it out on our site today.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

All Tied Up

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Knotty Things

A recurring theme since the 1600’s through the present day, the bow has been a beloved symbol of jewelers for centuries.  Often employed to communicate a message that couldn’t be spoken aloud, this elegant emblem was most often spotted pinned near the heart…  conveying the ever so romantic message that the wearer was in love. 

Time and again, the ribbon ornaments made in the Edwardian era were realistic and free-flowing with asymmetrical trailing tails.  This gem, crafted on the cusp of the Art Deco period is a departure from that style; it’s reminiscent of the bows made for the French Royal Court in the 17th century.  Prim and proper with perfectly even halves, this platinum topped 14-karat white gold bow brooch is lovely.

Criss-crossed patterns of lacy filigree exude femininity.  Already a symbol of love, this bow has a secondary message woven among the intricate design…  tiny forget-me-not flowers bloom on each loop and tail.  Much like tying a string around your finger can remind you to do something, the miniature blossoms on this bow brooch are meant to keep a special someone constantly on your mind.

The beauty is further enhanced by bejeweled edges.  There are thirteen Old Mine Cut diamonds that offer .50 carat of scintillating sparkle.  It shimmers and shines from every angle and is a true enhancement to any outfit.  

Priced at $1,000.00 – this charmer will be on our website soon.  If this bow has you tied up in knots, but just can’t envision yourself wearing a brooch – don’t worry!  With two highly skilled bench jewelers in our on-premises shop, this brooch can become the necklace of your dreams.  A few small modifications and the addition of a chain will take this piece to the next level.  These changes can be done easily and won’t break the bank.   Give us a call at 800.747.7552 or drop an email to carrie@joden.com with any questions.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Click To Call!