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This or That – Volume 21

March 16, 2026 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Branded Things

This month, we celebrate those lucky enough to claim aquamarine as their birthstone. Meaning ” water of the sea”, this transparent, turquoise-toned gemstone symbolizes tranquility and calm. It has long been worn by sailors as a talisman of protection, safe travels and good luck. Past civilizations believed aquamarine to be the treasure of mermaids; it ensured safe passage across stormy waters.

Quite often, aquamarine rings are large knuckle-dusters. Another commonality is that it is most often cut in the emerald-cut shape. Finding a more wearable birthstone ring for March babies can be a tough undertaking. When I came across not one but two wearable aquamarine rings, I couldn’t resist sharing them.

This modern estate piece showcases a wide, 18-karat yellow gold band. The high-polished finish is the perfect background for the two gemstones nestled within. First is a 5.00 carat oval aquamarine; almost entirely encapsulated within a bezel border, this baby blue gem shines. Situated to the side of the center is a singular step-cut diamond. Rectangular in shape, this diamond weighs approximately .15 carat. Perfect on an index or middle finger, this ring is available for $3,200.00.

Also modern, but in stark contrast is that 14-karat white gold number. The center stone is a marquise-shaped pale blue aquamarine set in east/west fashion across the finger. It weighs approximately 3.00 carats and is set within a full bezel. Accenting that gemstone is a single round diamond. Also, bezel set, the .18 carat diamond is seated at the tip of the marquise; it looks very much like a sideways exclamation point. Suitable for any finger, this unusual ring is priced at just $2,450.00.

Here are a pair of two-stone modern aquamarine rings. Both are stylish and wearable, offering their own unique charm. The question is… which would you choose? This 18-karat yellow gold beauty? Or that distinct white gold enchantress? This? Or that?

“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 112

March 13, 2026 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

I love discovering new (or new-to-me) things in the jewelry world… it might be a designer, a technique, or even a gemstone. I am always reading about trends and predictions for the upcoming season. I was a little delighted that chunky pendants and strands of large, colorful beads will be everywhere this summer. It was the perfect inspiration for a new window display; while I was gathering hanks of gemstone beads, I uncovered a set that I’d never seen.

Experience told me that it wasn’t jade. It doesn’t have the right tone or texture. In fact, these apple-green gems look like turquoise. Google Lens offered two possibilities – both were intriguing.

Carico Lake Turquoise – a rare and highly collectible stone found in Nevada. It is known for its vibrant, lime-green color. This unusual hue is caused by a high zinc content.
Gaspeite – an extremely rare mineral found in Canada and Australia. It is valued for it’s vivid apple-green color credited to its nickel carbonate content.

Luckily, we have an XRF Analyzer. I simply placed the beads in the scanner and pressed the button. In just seconds, the result was 98% nickel. This necklace and earrings are gaspeite.

Forty-eight cylindrical beads showcase lovely shades of bright green interspersed with white matrix and dark green veining. Divided into two halves, these orbs flank both sides of the center medallion. Hand-crafted from 14-karat yellow gold, this pendant showcases an opposed seahorse motif. A pair of high-polish seahorses sit on each side of a large, bezel-set piece of gaspeite.

The nautical theme repeats itself in the lever-back style earrings. Smaller golden seahorses guard the prized square piece of lime-green gaspeite held between them. For those that have heard of this unusual gemstone, perhaps you also know that it is a grounding stone. It encourages emotional release; it helps to heal past wounds, resentment and anger. Gaspeite is also believed to promote emotional stability and love.

Gaspeite is not a particularly durable gem; in fact, it is quite soft. It can scratch easily and should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning. A simple solution of mild soap and water is all that is needed to clean it. Because it is delicate, it is best enjoyed in a pendant and earrings like this as opposed to a ring or bracelet that would be subject to a bit rougher wear.

An online search did not offer many gaspeite jewels crafted with gold; what pieces were available had been constructed from silver. Though I was unable to find any provenance for this lovely duo, I can’t help but think it must be quite rare. Destined to be a beloved asset in any jewelry-lovers wardrobe, these pair can be purchased for just $1500.00.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Hot or Not – Volume 30

March 9, 2026 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Curious Things

We’ve been talking a lot about unique choices for engagement rings lately. After twenty-five years of wedded bliss, I’m well past the betrothal phase of dating. I have to say that I am a bit relieved to not be attempting to purchase an engagement ring in today’s market. There are so many variables and potential pitfalls – it’s much more challenging than ever before.

Just last week, I stumbled upon this unusual find. I gave a quick once-over, put it back and went on with my day. A day or so later, it crossed my path for the second time. I tried it on, set it aside and went back to work. As much as it appealed to me, I was sure this ring would raise an eyebrow or two if I chose it for a blog. When I happened upon it for the third time, I simply could not resist.

Made from 14-karat rose gold, this solitaire has a hammered band. A pear-shaped rose cut diamond is bezel-set on the center of the ring. Often described as “salt and pepper”, this .80 carat diamond exhibits unique inclusions that are strangely beautiful. This is the very thing that many young couples are looking for… a perfectly imperfect ring that represents their union. Simple and elegant, this ring is available for just $2,250.00.

If I were getting engaged in 2026, this is precisely the kind of ring that I would choose. I find myself wondering what you think. Is this rose gold ring hot? Or not?

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Baubles, Bling and Branded Things

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

Baubles, Bling and Curious Things

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