Joe’s Special Box – Volume 162

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Thing

Last week, we shared a piece of jewelry from the Retro era (the late 1930’s-1940’s) – a bold band that is SO good.  Those years not only designated the Retro period but also the Great Depression.  Arguably the most devasting economic downturn in United States history, the depression saw unprecedented unemployment rates, businesses going belly up and a radical decline in economic activity.  It wasn’t until World War II started that things started to turn around.  Preparing for war fueled industrial production which created jobs.  The war efforts also gobbled up all of the platinum using it for manufacturing rifle and engine parts as well as explosives.  Rather than inhibiting jewelers, the loss of platinum inspired them to create an entirely new trend.  By alloying gold with a higher ratio of copper, rose gold entered the picture in a big way.  

The majority of Retro jewelry was big and bold.  Statement pieces were all the rage – gold was manipulated into scrolls and volutes; it was woven, braided and entwined.  There were leaves, ribbons and my favorite… bows.  This simple yet incredibly feminine form has been adorning jewelry for centuries.  Bows were particularly beloved during the Edwardian era.  It came to the forefront once again in the 1940’s.  Vintage bow brooches are readily available as are pendants and necklaces.  But rings are rare.

This sweetheart just arrived and we are in love!  Uncomplicated and effortless in design, this beribboned ring offers endless charm.  Made of 14-karat rose gold, it’s a finger size seven.  It sits perfectly on the index and middle fingers of my left hand.  The knot in the center of the bow is white gold and is set with an Old European Cut diamond that weighs approximately .10 carat.  Adding the perfect amount of sparkle to this triple loop bow.  A small space separates each loop and remnants of the original milgrain beading remain on the edges of those loops.  The tails of the bow drape down the shoulders of the ring, completing the look.

Perfect for so many occasions, this vintage ring is priced at just $465.00.  Although it was well loved by previous owners, there is still plenty of life left in it.  Choose it for any reason or no reason at all – it’s just too sweet to let it go!  Check it out on our site today.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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

His and Hers – Volume Three

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Traditional Things

I have been wearing a wedding band for nearly 19 years…  even when I don’t have it on, there is a dent in my finger where my ring usually resides.  It is a visual reminder of a promise, a commitment…  a vow made and kept.  My hubby has always worked with his hands, he’s blue collar through and through.  As such, he rarely wears his wedding band.  When he does, it gives me a little thrill to see it there – the warm golden color against his calloused working man hand. 

While the tradition of a wedding ring has been in existence for over 3000 years, the history of men’s bands is much more recent.  In the United States, it was commonplace for a woman to wear a ring, but not a man.  However, in the early 1940’s with the advent of WWII, soldiers began wearing a ring.  They wanted to be reminded of their wives and families back home.  The fad continued into the Korean War.  After that, it seemed the trend had become tradition.  

“ABS to WEL – June 4, 1907” and “WEL to ABS – June 4, 1907”

The classically simple design of this matched pair of gold bands captured my heart as soon as I found them.  As I scooped them out of the scrap box (jewelry destined for the melting pot), I was drawn to the natural patina that developed from years of wear.  Thousands of tiny scratches cover the surface of each one, giving the gold a soft look.  Then, I saw the inscriptions inside, and my heartstrings tugged a bit more.  Finally, I slid the smaller of the two over my knuckle…  a perfect fit.  

On June 4, 1907 (a Tuesday), these two lovebirds tied the knot.  At a time when wedding bands were really only for the ladies, these two were so in love that they both wanted a ring.  ABS and WEL wanted that outward sign for all to see…  a golden circle with no beginning and no end. 

No end indeed.  The scrap box is a little lighter today.  These beauties have been rescued and are available in our store!

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Click To Call!