Hot or Not – Volume Eight

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Shapely Things

Every time I pick up a piece of jewelry, I begin to mentally check off boxes based on both my own likes as well as what’s on trend right now. 

  • What’s the metal?
  • Platinum or gold?  14 or 18-karat?
  • What gemstones are featured?
  • Are they the star of the show or are they the supporting cast?
  • How does it feel when I put it on?
  • Do I want to keep wearing it, or do I want to take it off?
  • Does the piece match the price?
  • Is it priced too high, too low or just right?

This eye-catching bracelet is a series of twenty-one marquise-shaped links, each one set at a jaunty angle.  Each link moves independently in a delightfully snakelike fashion.  Already, my mind is turning…

  • The main structure of the piece is made from the rich, warm tone of 18-karat yellow gold.  To display a bi-color motif, the artist created an 18-karat white gold segment that sits atop the yellow gold base.  The combination of the two colors is well done and gives the bracelet versatile appeal.
  • Sixty-three diamonds are set within the links.  Set in groups of three, these sparklers accentuate the marquise shape and have a total weight of approximately 1.50 carats.  There are both full and single-cut near colorless diamonds (the average color grade is I) with an average clarity grade of VS2-SI1.  
  • When clasping the bracelet around my wrist, I admire the expertly hidden clasp.  It closes with a satisfying snap.  The first thing I sense is the physical weight of the piece…  it’s heavy but in the best way.  It exudes quality.  There are no sharp bits and it’s comfortable and easy to wear. 
  • Finally – it’s the “Goldilocks” conundrum…  is the price too high, too low, or is it just right?  $4500…  When I consider the amount of gold (28.7 dwt), the high karat of that gold, and the diamond weight (1.50 carats) – I have to say, it’s priced right.

After thoughtfully evaluating each bulleted point, there’s no doubt that the bracelet is well-made from high quality materials.  The Mid-Century Modern design also offers good value.  There is just one final question to answer… Is the bracelet hot?  Or not?  I can’t wait to hear what you think!  Check it out on our site for more details. 

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Hot or Not – Volume Three

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Speculative Things

Established in London in 1960, The House of Graff was inspired by a devotion to beauty, detail and superior craftsmanship.  Over the past sixty years, this powerhouse firm has become known for the finest quality gemstones and unique design. 

True to the brand that Graff has created, this bold brooch is an exceptional example from our estate department.  Weighing over 25 dwt, this piece has real weight – a true testament to the artistry and worth that combined to conceive such an unusual gem.  Measuring approximately 1.5 x 1.75 inches, it fills the palm of my hand; a size that manages to make a statement without being ostentatious.  It’s very wearable. 

A sturdy frame made from 18 karat white gold is the backbone of this striking clip-style brooch.  A hinged double pin stem mechanism holds the piece firmly in place – a singular stem would simply not do.  The sides and back of the outer frame have been enhanced with a deep texture, an additional dimension that serves to soften the appearance of the wide expanse of gold.  The deep blue color in this piece is derived from the large cushion shaped Lapis Lazuli that fills the frame from edge to edge.  Presenting with a rich cobalt color and speckled with tiny flecks of gold, this bewitching stone looks very much like a starry night sky.   

To complete the look, two freeform swirls are affixed atop the lapis.  These gently curving lines are pavé-set with ninety round brilliant diamonds.  The glittering gems offer a combined weight of 7.50 carats of bling.  Clasped onto your jacket lapel or pinned to your favorite chunky sweater, there’s no doubt that this designer brooch will cause quite a stir.  

Personally, I think this is a real “Wow” piece.  I’m both captivated and perplexed…  maybe you can clear things up.  With eye-catching details including a diamond encrusted piece of lapis and priced at $7,500…  is this a home run or a dud?  What do you think – is it hot?  Or not?  Check out our Instagram story and cast your vote now. 

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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