Monthly Archive: October 2019

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 86

November 5, 2019October 31, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

This week, I want to play a little game. One of these rings was pulled from Joe’s Special Box and the other from the scrap box. Both pieces are from the 1970’s – a decade much like today. Faith in the government was shaken to it’s core, American’s were protesting a myriad of issues and equal rights were at the forefront. I’d like to propose a debate of our own…

This ring is sleek sophistication. A 14 karat two tone band centers on seven horizontal rows; each set with three perfectly matched single-cut diamonds. These twenty one sparkling gems have a combined weight of .25 carat. The profile of the wide center is concave, a design element that I love. The shank of the ring tapers down from there and features an understated satin finish. It fits my finger perfectly… I can’t get enough of that 1970’s vibe!

And this one is chic and refined. 18 karat yellow gold with a sliver of platinum trim create the triangular shape of this geometric gem. An elongated slice of black onyx runs parallel to the finger and is set with a small bar of diamonds. There are four stones with a combined weight of .33 carat. The bright yellow metal underneath the center is accented with a convex ribbed design; injecting another element of cool. When worn, I’m mad for the crisp clean line of this stunner.

Here they are, on my hand. Joe gave me a brief description for each of them. One he characterized as having “real style” and when he saw the other, he immediately said “I hate it! Get rid of it. Choose something else.” As I am quite fond of both rings, I was a bit taken aback. A few giggles later, I protested. After all, the photos were already taken… now I leave it to you. Which ring is which?

Go to our Facebook page or our Instagram feed to cast your vote.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Victorian Vision

October 31, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Primitive Things

I have several necklaces littering the bottom of my jewelry box… three or four conversion pieces, a few tiny pendants and countless charms. Each one is special in it’s own way – but none of them are what I would call a statement piece. They are nothing like the two showstoppers featured here.

This beauty dates back to the late Victorian period, circa 1880. The high karat gold shines with a rosy glow on each articulated link, hand set with glittering diamonds of both rose and old mine cut varieties. Five natural pearls add a soft, romantic feel. I love the botanical vibe created by the six-petaled blossom at the top and the smaller flower at the bottom.

With a total of 3.00 carats of diamond weight, the impact of this piece can be felt even from a distance. Although rose cut diamonds don’t have the precise symmetry of their modern counterparts, the scintillation (or sparkle) is dazzling. Primitive rose cuts were developed in the 1500’s; and even now, more than 600 years later, their appeal is undeniable. These flat-backed gems are most known for their rounded crown of faceting, utilizing anything from three to twenty-four facets. Each of these flat surfaces effectively reflects light back to the eye… although Victorians much preferred candle light. Make a statement in your wardrobe with this piece for $5,750.00.

Or perhaps this negligee style necklace is more to your liking, it’s a mid-Victorian diamond bar with a pair of asymmetrical drops suspended from it.

A half-moon shaped mirror-cut diamond sits center stage surrounded by a halo of rose cuts. The two drops end with a pair of identical round clusters that are set with twelve rose cut diamonds each. Four small bow-like accents add even more flair to this beauty. There are thirty-one stones in all for a total of three carats! The variance in size and shape of these diamonds make it quite rare as well as valuable. Although the rose cut had a decline in popularity at the beginning of the 20th century, these early examples are now commanding premium prices. This one can be yours for $8,500.00.

At Joden, we are known for statement pieces. Our curated collection of antique and estate jewelry is overflowing with fine period gems. After nearly fifty years, our motto continues to hold true…

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 85

October 25, 2019October 23, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

If you’re a regular reader, then you know all about Joe’s Special Box! It’s a veritable treasure trove of vintage gems… you can find anything from a Victorian baby ring for $200 to a incredibly rare Swiss Enamel bracelet priced at over $8,000.00. I love digging in the box, turning each bag over to see what’s inside.

Lockets are a favorite – an old-fashioned keepsake. Fill it with tiny photos, a hand-written note or even a lock of hair… our customers are always seeking the perfect one. This Art Nouveau beauty just might be it! I am captivated by every element. The bright yellow gold has a matte finish and features a sculpted fan-like shape. A trio of blue sapphires are bezel set in a vertical line down the center of the piece adding a pop of color. The chain is original to the piece – consisting of a series of interlocking oval links, seven of which are set with sapphires and is moderately priced at $4,800.00.

It layers beautifully with the elongated Lapis Lazuli pictured above. Converted from an antique brooch, this pendant has three cabochon rich blue stones, each one surrounded by a halo of seed pearls. The strong contrast between the blue and the white is very appealing to the eye. This delicious conversion necklace is priced at $2,700.00.

When you visit us at Joden, be sure to ask about Joe’s Special Box. The ever-changing inventory is eclectic and varied. It’s worth the visit, just to see this box.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Baubles, Bling, and Primitive Things

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

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