Joden Girl
Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things
As a general rule, I don’t like heart jewelry… more specifically modern heart jewelry. It’s often overdone and trite. Occasionally, I uncover an exception to the rule. I have seen one or two beautifully executed modern heart pieces. Conversely, because antique jewelry was not mass-produced, the jewels are unique. Vintage heart jewelry is much more appealing. It’s romantic, sentimental and almost always well done.
Antique lockets are highly sought after, especially ones that are large enough to personalize with photos of loved ones. This beauty from Joe’s Special Box is a perfect example.
It’s unusually large – measuring 1.75 inches from the top of the bail to the tip of the heart. I would pair it with a long chain and wear with everything from summer rompers to chunky winter sweaters. Made entirely of 10-karat yellow gold, this heart shimmers softly. The exterior features millions of tiny scratches that have etched a beautiful patina onto the surface. Each mark is a memory of a life well-lived and well-loved. The gently worn look is my absolute favorite part of this Victorian treasure.
The interior of the locket features both original frames -they are simple to remove, add photos and put back in place. The back side of the heart is inscribed with a lovely entwined monogram – a script “R” in the center with an “R” to the left and a “W” to the right. Add your photos, a lock of hair or even a tiny note… it’s a beautiful way to weave a new story into an old one. Made near the end of the Victorian era in the 1880’s, this locket is nearly 150 years old. Not yet available on line, you’ll have to give us a call or stop by to see it for yourself. Priced at just $800, it’s every bit as good today as it was a lifetime ago.
“You can go to a museum and look, or come to us and touch.”
Written by Carrie Martin
Photos by Dana Jerpe
