Half hoop ring Archive

What’s New – Volume 79

April 4, 2024July 31, 2023 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

Nearly two years ago, we introduced this edition of the blog. The title may be a bit of a misnomer – this is the place where we share fresh finds – the latest and greatest pieces in our inventory. These aren’t always brand new, modern pieces. In fact, more often than not, we share vintage treasures.

This week, we have an antique beauty. Inside the shank are a series of three hallmarks…

These unique markings reveal the fineness of the metal, the place the piece was assayed as well as the year it was made. In this case, we have a crown with the number 18, a sideways anchor and a lower-case letter m – three symbols that indicate that the metal used was 18-karat gold; the anchor is the symbol for the Birmingham Assay Office and the letter tells us that the ring was made in 1896.

This side view showcases the claw-like prongs that loop up to hold each gem in place. This style is known as a half hoop ring. This antique charmer is set with a quintet of Old European Cut diamonds. Known for their large facets, open culets and fire, these diamonds have a combined weight of .70 carat. It’s a perfect choice for an anniversary, a wedding band, or a right-hand ring.

Shown on the hand, the delicate beauty of this band shines. In superb condition, it’s hard to believe that this piece is 127 years old. With proper care, its allure will last another century or more. Make this heirloom ring a part of your family’s story for just $2,450.00. Click over to our website to make it yours.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

This or That – Volume Seven

February 24, 2023 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Twinning Things

In 2023 in the United States, most Americans subscribe to the “bigger is better” philosophy of life. Whether we’re talking about the size of our homes and our cars or even something as simple as the length of our eyelashes – it seems like the vast majority of us equate size with quality. We work harder and longer to be able to achieve a coveted super-sized lifestyle complete with a 4000 square-foot house, a land yacht of an SUV and of course – all the bling to go with it! We’re obsessed with size. When the dust settles, I have to wonder… is bigger really better?

To help answer that very question, we have a visual aid. This pair of rings are nearly identical. They’re both Victorian and both are made from 18-karat yellow gold. These half hoop style rings feature five cabochon oval opals in graduating sizes.

Shown from the edge, you can see the claw-like prongs that hold each fiery opal in place. The condition of these 19th century beauties is superb… not a single cracked, chipped or broken stone. Every prong is intact. There’s just one visible difference – one ring is bigger than the other.

The larger of the two rings has a series of hallmarks inside the band. A tiny crown with an 18 notes the fineness of the metal. A sideways anchor is the symbol of the Birmingham Assay Office. And finally, a stylized “X” reveals that the ring was crafted between 1897-1898. The five opals in this antique charmer have a combined weight of approximately 2.40 carats that shimmer and sparkle in shades of blue, green, orange and red. It’s priced at just $1,600.00.

The smaller of the two also showcases hallmarks inside the band. There is a simple “18” that references the quality of the metal. Then there is an “A & W’ – this is the mark of Alabaster & Wilson. More specifically, Arthur Alabaster and Thomas Wilson. These two gentlemen founded their jewelry firm in the Jewelry Quarter in Birmingham in 1887, quickly becoming known for fine quality and timeless style. Five opals span the top of this petite dazzler with a total weight of 1.00 carat… less than half of the larger ring. It’s priced at $1,300.00.

Shown on the hand, both rings are equally striking… and so, I’m still seeking the answer to that age old question. Is bigger really better? Which would you choose – this larger opal ring or that smaller opal ring? This or that?

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 123

April 19, 2021 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Offering lovely pale peachy-pink hues, this particular shade of coral is often referred to as angel skin. Cut into elongated cabochon ovals that have been polished to feel as smooth as silk – these coral stones are handset into a wonderfully carved 18 karat yellow gold ring. These rings were made in the 1870’s, during the Mid-Victorian era.

Aptly dubbed half-hoop rings or carved rings, these beauties were extremely popular. The side detail of the ring, a series of looped prongs are the very thing that earned this style its nickname.

A vast variety of multi-colored gems were set within these rings, including coral. This luscious gem is now rare, it can only be used from recycled sources. Coral has long been a symbol of modesty, wisdom, happiness and immortality. These stones are accented by a series of eight tiny rose cut diamonds, adding the perfect amount of sparkle. Priced at $1,080.00 – this beauty is available in Joe’s Special Box.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

Baubles, Bling and Twinning Things

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

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