Joe’s Special Box – Volume 146

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

The 1850’s were part of the post-Romantic era.  A range of cultural endeavors and attitudes emerged in the late 19th century.  Musicians began to play concerts for the general public, not just wealthy patrons.  This decade saw the birth of many literary masterpieces including “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” by Harriet Beecher Stowe, “Leaves of Grass” by Walt Whitman and “Moby Dick” by Herman Melville.  Charles Dickens penned “David Copperfield” and Charles Darwin wrote “The Origin of the Species”.  

Most people lived on and worked small farms and followed the seasonal rhythms.  They grew their own food; and thanks to Isaac Singer inventing the first sewing machine for home use, they sewed their own clothes.  They built traditional homes and lived simpler, yet deeply satisfying lives. 

It was the Victorian period in terms of jewelry.  Early pieces from this era were completely handmade.  Necklaces were worn close to the neck and often featured pavé diamond leaves with clusters of flowers.  Intricate designs wound their way around necks and wrists.  Pendants and lockets hung from chains or were strung on ribbons.  

A recent acquisition, this mid-Victorian piece is a showstopper.  The base of this pendant is yellow gold topped with a layer of beautifully tarnished silver.  Nestled within a halo, the center diamond is an Old Mine Cut that weighs approximately 1.08 carats.  Seventy-five additional diamonds of both old mine and single-cut styles accent this triangular-shaped pendant.  Combined, these gems have a total weight of more than 2.20 carats!  Pairs of swirling lines spiral out from the center stone creating a botanical motif.  Measuring 2.5 inches from top to bottom, this antique beauty dazzles.  Over 160 years old, this pendant can be found in Joe’s Special Box.  It’s also on our site, available for just $6,450.00.  Nab this post-romantic piece for yourself.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

What’s Your Sign

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Astrological Things

Astrology is defined as “the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies interpreted as having an influence on human affairs and the natural world.” In simpler terms, astrology is the study of the movements of the planets, sun, moon and stars in the belief that these movements can have an influence on people’s lives.  The earliest evidence of astrology dates back to the third millennium BC… that’s more than 5000 years ago.  

Psychology proposes that astrology is a coping mechanism; helping us to make sense of things during difficult times.  That makes sense considering that astrology thrived during the Great Depression and more recently during the pandemic.  Psychologists believe this is because astrology provides a sense of control and also helps us to better understand ourselves. 

Over the years, many iconic jewelers have dedicated collections to the signs of the zodiac.  Vintage Cartier pieces are highly sought after as are vintage David Webb designs.  Today, legendary giants like Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., and Roberto Coin feature zodiac pendants in their line.  

This sizable medallion turned up in our estate department and we couldn’t resist it’s allure.  Made entirely of 18-karat yellow gold, this charmer measures 1.75 inches across!  The featured design is the water bearer, the symbol for Aquarius…  the 11th sign in the zodiac.  Those born between January 20th and February 18th are considered Aquarians.  Intellectuals and born leaders, it’s no surprise to learn that both Abraham Lincoln and Oprah Winfrey fall under the sign Aquarius.

Adding to the appeal of this pendant are several small details…  the deeply ridged border that encompasses it, the guilloche-style cobalt blue enamel background, and the beautifully etched pattern on the reverse side.  This piece could actually be reversible, showcasing that striking engraving.  Four white gold stars surround the center figure, each one contains a round brilliant diamond.  Combined, these gems have a total weight of approximately .15 carat.  Solid construction ensured the heft of this piece – it weighs over 40 grams!

The sheer physical size of this piece makes it stand out…  just look at it on the hand.  Even at this large size, this medallion manages to be impressive without becoming obnoxious.  For those born under the 11th sign, or those who simply love unusual zodiac jewelry – this bold beauty is available now for $3,000.00.  This is your sign…  call us and make it yours today. 

“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 95

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

On a scale of my most to least favorite types of jewelry, bracelets come in near or at the bottom.  I like to look at them, and I want to wear them – but somehow, they end up laying in a puddle on my desk before I’ve finished my first cup of tea.  

I used to think it was because I have a small wrist.  I wear a six-inch bracelet as opposed to the standard seven-inch length.  But, with an in-house bench jeweler – I could easily have a bracelet adjusted to fit.  I also discovered that there are a lot of custom-sized (both shorter and longer) bracelets in antique jewelry.  So, it would seem that the wrist size was just a cop out.  In my heart of hearts, I’m really a ring and earring girl.

Recently, we acquired a really lovely piece that has me giving bracelets a second look.  Made entirely of 18-karat, this beauty was made in the late 1800’s, near the turn of the century.  There are seventeen individual links…  nine of them feature two interlocking whiplash lines with a small cornflower blue sapphire set in the center.  Each bright blue gem is set within a smooth-edged bezel – combined these nine stones have a total weight of .75 carat.  

Alternating with those links are eight small floral blossoms.  Three-dimensional and lifelike, each tiny flower has five petals.  Marking the center of each one is a small natural pearl.  It’s a Victorian vibe with hints of Art Nouveau – a truly glorious combination.  It measures a generous 7.5 inches with a cleverly hidden clasp.  For a smaller size wrist, it could be adjusted.  Super sweet and in superb condition, this bracelet is on our site for just $2,350.00.  

At the end of the day, I’m still a ring and earring girl.  I can appreciate a great bracelet and might even take one for a spin now and again.  This beauty deserves full-time love and appreciation.  If you’re a true bracelet lover, hop on over to our site and make this one yours.  

“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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