Joden Girl
Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things
Sometimes I have to be sneaky when I’m scouting for blog picks… especially when they’re for the “Joe’s Special Box” blogs! Joe tends to be a bit territorial when it comes to his private collection. Much like a hoarder, he has an eye for the very finest treasures and he likes to keep them to himself. From Victorian to modern, if something a little extra is needed – the place to look is in Joe’s stash. Every single time Joe catches me digging through those boxes, his voice sharpens a fraction when he asks… “What are you looking for?” If I tell him that I need blog inspiration, he relaxes a bit but still wants to know which one of his prized pieces has piqued my attention.
This lovely little pendant reminds me of a daisy. Pretty and petite, the design is unique. Made from a combination of 18-karat white gold and platinum, the flower itself is centered on a sixteen-inch cable link chain. Two bezel set round diamonds connect to a pair of pavé-set diamond leaves. Three diamonds accent each little leaf. Just below the delicate foliage is the featured flower. The middle of the blossom is oval in shape and it is also pavé-set. Ten round brilliant diamonds fill the oval from top to bottom. Perhaps the most interesting component are the “petals”. A singular piece of wire has been coiled into a uniform spring that completely encapsulates the diamond center. Showcasing a matte finish, I love this unusual design element.
There are eighteen diamonds in all with a total weight of approximately .80 carat. Bright white, these colorless diamonds have an average clarity grade of VS. The back of the piece is engraved with a series of hallmarks… “Michael B., © 96, plat, 18K”. Like a key for a map, these hallmarks reveal details about the pendant. It was made in 1996, from both platinum and 18-karat gold by legendary modern designer Michael B.
Michael began honing his craft at the tender age of ten in Istanbul, Turkey. By the age of sixteen, he came to California to pursue his dream. Working primarily in bridal designs, Michael B. went on to win countless awards. He became known for micro pavé setting, which is showcased to perfection in this pendant. Although the brand lives on, Michael B. passed away in 2014. This particularly fine example of his work is available for $2,150.00. Who wouldn’t want to find this beauty under their Christmas tree? ♥
“You can go to a museum and look, or come to us and touch.”
Written by Carrie Martin
Photos by Dana Jerpe
