Razzle Dazzle Retro

 

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and 1940’s Things

Wide expanses of gleaming gold artfully set with vivid red rubies and dazzling white diamonds…  this is the image that comes to mind when I think about Retro jewelry.  Beginning at the end of the 1930’s with the onset of WWII in Europe, this period was heavily influenced by the changes happening in the world.  The use of platinum was restricted, paving the way for gold to make what was perhaps the greatest comeback of all time.  Strong designs sculpted from yellow, rose, and green gold made their way into the hearts of Hollywood celebrities and ultimately the hearts of the American people.

Many European jewelry firms shut down during the war, forcing craftsmen and artisans to immigrate to America where the economy was thriving.  These bold yet ultra-feminine dress clips signed Tiffany & Co. showcase all the best bits of Retro jewelry!

Check out that glorious scroll – it curls around in perfect symmetry, giving a bow-shaped appeal to each one.  The center of the bow is accented with gem-fine rubies…sixteen square cut beauties.  The bright pop of color creates the ideal setting for the tiny strip of diamonds sparkling from within.  I love the high-polished finish that completes these treasures.  The surface is sleek and smooth exhibiting a mirror-like reflection.  It’s dazzling.  Glam up a collar, a lapel, or even a sweater with these oh-so-curvaceous clips for $6,300.00.

The Retro years (late 1930s-mid-1950s) represent a nostalgic snippet of American history.  The mementos from that time, especially jewelry, are highly collectible and command big prices in the market.  These lookers, made by one of the most iconic and celebrated jewelers of all time are the epitome of Retro.  Don’t just take my word for it, come see them for yourself.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

A Drool-worthy MCM

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and a 1950’s Ring

This is one MCM that I could really go for…  and I’m not talking about Man Crush Monday, but rather Mid Century Modern.  In the years following the end of WWII, a significant design movement began to emerge…  in all areas – furniture, art, fashion, automobiles, and jewelry.  With the war over, previously restricted materials became available again like platinum and silver.  As new styles and trends began to develop, old ones were rejected and this was no exception.  Rose gold reigned supreme in the the 1940’s period known as Retro.  Mid Century Modern was an eclectic combination of yellow and white metals…  gold, silver, and platinum.  

This beauty is tailored and traditional times three.  A warm European Cut diamond is artfully set in four-cornered fashion.  Weighing approximately .50 carat, this sparkler is modestly embellished by a pair of period-cut diamonds that have a combined weight of .10 carats.  The strong geometric shape of the top of this ring is further enhanced by a ribbed shank.  Crisply crafted from 14 karat white gold, this hand finished ring was made during the early 1950’s.  Priced at $2200, this low profile, elegantly outlined diamond trio ring makes an ideal gift for any lady on your holiday shopping list.  

This ring and many others are waiting for you at Joden.  Even now, after nearly 50 years in business, our motto continues to hold true…

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

Writing and Photos by Carrie Martin

Ravishing Retro

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Glamorous Things

At the end of the 1930’s, the strong geometric lines of Art Deco evolved into the vivid 3-dimentional curves that Retro is known for.  Jewelry of the 1940’s-1950’s makes a bold statement, like this striking bangle pictured above.

Wide ribbons of rose and yellow gold wrap around a large emerald cut aquamarine center stone.  Bright red cabochon rubies and round diamonds add another element of color and design to this already outstanding piece.  To further heighten the appeal, this bangle is able to be converted to a pendant as well as a brooch – fashion AND function!

WWII was a powerful influence on the time.  The use of platinum was restricted making multicolor gold a popular choice…  yellow, rose, and green gold reigned during the Retro period.  Women’s apparel bore a noticeable resemblance to military uniforms – the look was handsome rather than pretty with high collars and ultra masculine lines.  To soften the effect, ladies added jewelry like this…

These oversize pieces are as audacious as they are delicious.  This large bow brooch will catch anyone’s eye – it centers on a 65 carat citrine; Retro style at its finest.  Priced at $6500, it pairs perfectly with the angular lines of this statement ring.   The hourglass shape of the ring nearly spans from knuckle to knuckle – ideally worn on an index or middle finger.  Make it yours for $4500.00.

Much of the Retro period was dedicated to trying to regain the Old Hollywood glamour of the 1930’s.  Pieces like this flaunt that designers achieved and surpassed that goal.  Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch.

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Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

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