Wwii Archive

Razzle Dazzle Retro

October 2, 2019 by Joden Girl

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

December 6, 2022June 27, 2019 by Joden Girl

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

A Drool-worthy MCM

June 5, 2020November 14, 2018 by Joden Girl

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

Baubles, Bling, and 1940’s Things

Baubles, Bling, and Traditional Things

Baubles, Bling, and a 1950’s Ring

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