What’s New – Volume 71

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

At first sight, many may not know what this gemstone is – some might even suspect that it isn’t a genuine stone.  Pale pink in color, this fair beauty has occasionally been referred to as an American stone because is was first discovered in California.  

A little-known variety of the mineral Spodumene, this pastel gem was discovered by George Frederick Kunz in 1902.  One year later in 1903, it was officially dubbed kunzite in honor of its founder.  Kunz had been a rock hound since early childhood.  He began working for Tiffany & Co. in 1879.  By the age of just 23, he had risen through the ranks to become the Vice President of Gemology for the iconic company – a position he held until his death in 1932.  

Showcased within an 18-karat rose gold ring, this emerald-cut kunzite weighs approximately 40 carats.  It is not uncommon to find this gem in large sizes.  In fact, kunzite crystals have been discovered that are over 40 feet long and 5 feet wide!  

 This Retro ring highlights the soft hue of the gem to perfection.  Flanking the large center stone are six single-cut diamonds.  Each one, set within a square setting, is stacked in a horizontal trio.  These diamonds have a combined weight of .35 carat – just a hint of sparkle.  

Shown on the hand, the ring reaches from knuckle to knuckle.  It’s impressive in size but soft and understated in style and color.  Perfect for spring, pair this natural beauty with your favorite oversized sweater for on-trend statement appeal.  Moderately priced at $3,380.00, this ring is available in our store now.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Filigree Finery

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Intricate Things

Less than 24 hours…  it’s not a record, but it’s still pretty darn great.  That’s how long these earrings lasted on our website.  The blog posted Monday, and by Tuesday…  sold!  Your response inspired us to select a complementary piece for today’s post – we know you’re going to love it too!  ♥

Defined as thin metal wire (usually gold or platinum) formed into delicate patterns – filigree is light, airy and incredibly lovely.  This style of decorative art pairs lace-like detail with open spaces and delicate coiled wires.  The end result is exquisite ethereal elegance.  It is one of the most iconic earmarks of vintage jewelry.  Filigree is most often associated with the early 20th century.  

Encompassing the years from 1901-1910, the Edwardian era is frequently characterized by a yellow gold foundation topped by a layer of platinum.

Shown here, the base structure of this bracelet shines with the warmth of yellow gold iced with a blanket of crisp white platinum.  An elongated diamond shape marks the center of the bracelet.  Perfectly placed in the middle is a round diamond sunk within a square setting.  Flanking the diamond are six natural French-cut sapphires.  Bright blue in color, these gems have a total weight of approximately .40 carat.  Two additional diamonds are seated within the bracelet – combined with the center stone, these three European cuts have a complete weight of .25 carat.

The remaining seventeen rectangular links showcase a gossamer cobweb of fine wirework.  The pattern stars a four-petaled blossom between a pair of leaves.  The clasp is cleverly hidden within the final link.  Outlining the entire length of the piece is a narrow engraved border – it frames the bracelet on the top and bottom edges.  

One final detail brings the vintage vibe full circle… rows of tiny beads cover each line and curve of the bracelet.  It’s called milgrain and it is the quintessential mark of Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry.  It adds texture and creates defined borders and sharpens the overall pattern and design.

On the wrist, it’s ideally sized for every occasion.  Wear it with anything and everything – it’s perfect anywhere and everywhere.  In superb condition, you might be surprised to discover that this beauty is available on our site now for just $1,400.00!  Pop on over and check it out for yourself.  If you love it…  grab it.  Past experience has proven that pieces like this don’t last long.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

What’s New – Volume 70

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

I love tiny treasures.  Dana and I squeal with delight when we stumble across a super sweet little bauble.  It’s awe-inspiring that someone was able to create these miniature pieces of perfection – they’re almost always vintage.  Modern new jewelry isn’t nearly as cool as the old stuff.  

Earrings from the early 20th century are an unusual find.  Due to the fascination with the bob hairstyle, earlobes were often hidden – a fact that rendered earrings unnecessary.  Because the demand decreased, jewelers shied away from earrings and concentrated their efforts on more profitable choices.  Now, more than 100 years later, the few Edwardian and Art Deco earrings that were made are highly sought after.  

When these petite darlings came in the mail, Dana and I grabbed them.  Even from within the worn plastic bag, we knew they were special.  Who could resist a delicate sapphire and diamond earring?  Definitely not us!  When I read the description provided, I was shocked to read these words…

“Silver, Yellow Gold and Foil-backed Glass Dangle Earrings”

They’re made from a lovely combination of 10-karat yellow gold and silver…  but the stones aren’t real!  Each of the eighteen colorless gems is a foilback.  This old-world technique involves applying a thin sheet of foil with a metallic sheen to the back of a stone to make it appear more brilliant.  Most often, this type of stone is set in a closed back collet, a setting that conceals and protects the foil.  The light blue centers resemble sapphires, but are also glass. 

Authentic and original, these earrings are perfectly sized and look great on the ear.  The leverback style ensures ease of use in addition to the delightful vintage vibe.  Because they aren’t genuine gemstones, they’re a steal of a deal at just $325.00.  If you love them, DO NOT hesitate!  They won’t last long… click over to our website or give us a call to make them yours today.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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