Joden Girl
Baubles, Bling and Sapphire Things
Sapphires have been mined in Sri Lanka for more than 2000 years. Described as the “jewel box of the Indian Ocean”, this country is a haven for some of the world’s most sought after gemstones. A veritable kaleidoscope of beauties are mined each year… ruby, spinel, alexandrite, garnet, tourmaline, aquamarine, zircon and as we’ve already mentioned – sapphires.
Of the enormous number of sapphires unearthed annually, a mere 5-10% of them are unheated. In addition, less than 1% of those unheated sapphires are gem quality. A fine unheated Sri Lankan sapphire is an extraordinary sight to behold. Recently, we acquired a stunning Art Deco bar pin. Set in the center is a royal blue sapphire. Both Joe and Jay (the owners of Joden Jewelers) are GIA graduate gemologists. Together, they decided to submit this antique treasure to the Gemological Institute of America for evaluation with the request that it be tested for possible treatments as well as country of origin. While these tests can be costly, they’re also critical in determining the rarity and value of a fine sapphire like this.
After weeks of waiting, we were rewarded with celebratory news. The oval beauty nestled within the center of our antique brooch was indeed Sri Lankan in origin AND unheated. Weighing approximately 3.00 carats, this incredibly desirable royal blue stone still in it’s original setting was a rare find. Measuring 2.25 inches from side to side, this platinum pin is exquisite.
Bursting from the center stone are an additional six blue sapphires, each one cut into an elegant tear drop shape. Offering a combined weight of .45 carat, the vibrant color of these gems is a match for the oval sapphire center. Skillfully cut into the left and right arms of the brooch are a matched pair of elongated apertures. Hand-cut, this design element lightens and brightens the feel of the piece. Covering the remainder of the surface are sixty European cut diamonds that offer a full carat of dazzling brilliance. Tiny milgrain beads border each sapphire as well as the entire circumference of the brooch, another outstanding detail.
Made near 1920, this bar pin is authentic and original. Boasting an unheated Sri Lankan sapphire center only ups the ante. It would be divine on any suit lapel or spanning the center of a silken tie. It would work equally well on a satin scarf or joining together the collar of a sweater. No matter how you decide to wear it, make it yours today for the moderate price of $5,000.00.
“You can go to a museum and look, or come to us and touch.”
Written by Carrie Martin
Photos by Dana Jerpe
