Joden Girl
Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Thing
The Retro era is perhaps the most underrated of all the jewelry periods. Encompassing the late 1930’s through the 1940’s, the Retro era coincided with World War II. It was the single most defining event to directly impact the jewelry market. Platinum was reserved for the war effort – it was a crucial element in making rifle and engine parts, explosives and armaments. Because it was absolutely essential elsewhere, this precious metal was strictly prohibited for use in jewelry. That fact closed the door on Art Deco and opened a window for something fresh and new. Creative genius stepped in; the gold that was available was alloyed with a higher percentage of copper resulting in a strikingly beautiful pinkish hue. Rose gold would become the face of the Retro era. Jewelers also experimented with other alloys, a process that introduced more colors of gold. Oftentimes, multiple hues were used in the same piece, like this one…
Measuring just shy of 12mm wide, this band is a delightful confection of color. Made entirely of 14-karat, the main body of the band is rose gold. The surface has a raised, textured finish… hundreds of tiny beads are speckled from one scalloped edge to the other. A botanical pattern has been appliqued to the rose gold band. There are white gold blossoms with rose gold centers, yellow gold sprays, and small rose gold flowers artfully arranged around the circumference of the ring. It’s made in an eternity style, with no beginning and no end. This band is size 8.25. Much like Cinderella’s slipper, it needs to be a perfect fit as it cannot be sized. I’ve tried it on all of my fingers, but alas, I am doomed to the fate of an ugly stepsister… it just doesn’t fit. Maybe you will be the lucky one!
There are eight round diamonds decorating the band. With a combined weight of .65 carat, they offer a hint of sparkle to this whimsically-inspired look. If you’ve been searching for a signature look – something special that can be worn daily – look no further. This bold beauty is moderately priced at $1,975.00. Stop by to determine your fate… will you be an ugly stepsister like me, or will you be Cinderella?
“You can go to a museum and look, or come to us and touch.”
Written by Carrie Martin
Photos by Dana Jerpe