Joe’s Special Box – Volume 160

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

There are certain styles of jewelry that transcend time; pieces that sell as quickly as we get them.  One of the most beloved styles of antique jewelry is rock crystal or camphor glass jewelry.  This fashion came to life in the Edwardian era but has roots in the 17th century.  The predecessor to camphor glass was the Stuart crystal; a pure piece of rock crystal quartz that is colorless and transparent.  After the execution of Charles I in 1649, these unique jewels were worn by patrons wanting to honor and show loyalty to the Stuart crown.  Rings, cuff links, earrings and pendants were fashioned with a crown and/or a personalized monogram; some featured a profile of Charles I.  The clear piece of rock crystal quartz (a.k.a. Stuart crystal) was placed over the top to protect the symbols beneath… just like a piece of glass in a picture frame.

As the years went on, additional uses and adaptations of rock crystal emerged.  Victorians discovered that when the material was carved, it became cloudy.  This translucent look was quite lovely and utilized in all kinds of jewelry.  Even iconic jewelry houses like Cartier and Boucheron embraced the beauty of this versatile material.  At the beginning of the 1900’s, plaques like the one shown here were quite popular… so popular, in fact, that an easily mass-produced and less expensive alternative soon made its way onto the jewelry scene.  It was called camphor glass.

By exposing clear glass to hydrofluoric acid vapors, the glass took on a soft, frosted appearance that mimicked rock crystal quartz.  Often carved from behind in a starburst pattern with a small diamond set at the center, these lovely pieces of glass were set in delicate filigree frames. Because it was more affordable, it was not only used in fine jewelry, but costume jewelry as well.  It’s quite challenging to tell the difference between the two – and to be honest, both are highly collectible.  

Shown on the neck, this pendant offers presence with a casual appeal.  I am wearing it with a simple gray sweater.  It would pair equally well with everything from your favorite distressed denim to a satin and lace wedding gown.  The intricate frame is made from 14-karat white gold as is the 18-inch original chain that it is suspended from.  My favorite detail is the tiny bow at the top of the pendant… it’s the sweetest touch.  Nestled in the center of the pendant is a singular diamond that weighs approximately .03 carat.  This authentic antique beauty is available for just $975.00!  Give us a call to make it yours today.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photography by Dana Jerpe

 

  

This is NOT your dad’s necktie

Antique tie pin

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Manly Things

Earlier this year, I read an article about a new local business that really spoke to me.  I had met the owners, Micah and Alicia List,  here at Joden on several occasions but I had no idea they had started this cool and trendy business…  https://www.neckandtieco.com/shopnt.

The Neck and Tie Company moved into the loft at 144.5 South Broad Street at the end of this past summer (right upstairs from us!) and have been going strong ever since.  It just so happens that Micah’s ties are the perfect pallet for our vintage tie pins.

This is an Art Deco jabot pin made from white gold.  Each decorative end features carved rock crystal quartz, faceted onyx, and carnelian beads.  Priced at $3000, it would be a showstopper on any tie.

Dragons, and swords, and chains, Oh my!  What an exceptional example of Art Nouveau jewelry…  the hilt of the sword is decorated with natural seed pearls and light blue enamel while the blade is capped with a intricately carved dragon.  Who could resist such an elaborate display of masculine finery?  It is available on our website for just $1800 – the perfect stocking stuffer!

Be sure to stop in at 144 South Broad Street for your Christmas shopping…  visit Micah upstairs for neck ties, bow ties, and pocket squares, then visit us downstairs for the perfect tie pin.

“Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch.”

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

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