Hot or Not – Volume 12

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Curious Things

Few things strike fear in my heart…  very near the top of the list are snakes.  Completely irrational and neurotic, this fear can shake me to my core.  Even a mere glimpse of a snake on television will find me checking the covers at the bottom of my bed and carefully peeking under furniture…  unfortunately, it usually also gives me nightmares.  Once, after a very small garter snake was discovered in my front yard, I wouldn’t leave the house.  Weeks later, I was still leaping off the edge of the porch to avoid as much of the yard as possible.  

Despite its extreme popularity, I am not a fan of snake jewelry.  We have had some very fine pieces over the years…  and while I can recognize and appreciate the quality, I won’t own them.  As ridiculous as it sounds, I don’t even like to touch snake jewelry.  And so…  this week’s selection has left me feeling ambiguous.  

It’s bold.  Striking.  This 18-karat white gold bangle is definitely an eye-catcher.  Measuring three-quarters of an inch in width at the top, this modern marvel tapers to half an inch at the base.  A diamondback pattern covers the top half of the bracelet.  One hundred and two colorless round brilliant diamonds form the “X’s” while two hundred and ten rich brown chocolate diamonds fill in the center and sides.  The effect is dazzling.  Combined, these diamonds have a total weight of 9.00 carats!  

The construction of the bangle is superb.  It is hinged on one side with a concealed clasp on the opposite side.  The release button is textured for ease of use, and the clasp closes with a distinct and satisfying snap.  A pair of figure-eight safety catches have been applied to the sides for added security.  The bottom half of the bracelet is sleek and smooth – the high-polish finish gleams.  It’s moderately priced at $6,750.00.

While it may not have been intentional, there’s no denying that the pattern of this bangle replicates that of a diamondback rattler.  From the crossover design to the contrasting colors…  this bracelet reminds me of my worst fear.  What do you think?  Is this bangle 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

Joe’s Special Box Luxury Edition – Volume 15

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and A Collector’s Things

Three years ago, Joe strongly encouraged Dana and I to broaden the scope of the pieces that we showcase on social media and here, in the blog.  He was specifically interested in offering high-end luxury items.  After a lively discussion, an agreement was reached, and this special edition of the blog was born.  Volume 1 began with these words…

“The treasures at Joden are seemingly endless.  Our showcases are overflowing with the finest antique, estate, and modern jewelry.  From Victorian vignettes to Art Deco dazzlers – our collection is truly something to behold.  What you may not know is that not every gem is on display.  Some lucky guests have received a private showing in Joe’s office.  There, nestled into the golden oak cabinetry, tucked between endless volumes of Sotheby’s and Christie’s catalogs are the crème de la crème; an assemblage of the rarest jewels suitable for even the most seasoned connoisseurs and private collectors.”

Since then, we have showcased fourteen truly special pieces.  Today is the fifteenth installment.  Although modern jewelry isn’t typically my jam, this ring was simply irresistible.  Made entirely of 18-karat white gold, this beauty is a three-stone ring on steroids.  

A matched pair of fine lush green emeralds flank the center stone.  Each one is cut in a half-moon shape and is encapsulated within a diamond halo.  The rich tone of these precious gems cannot be captured in a photo – it needs to be appreciated in person.  Combined, these emeralds have a total weight of approximately .70 carat.  Fifty-eight round brilliants create shimmering borders around the three main stones and decorate the shoulders and edges of this spectacular ring.  These diamonds have a total weight of approximately .50 carat. 

The emeralds and melee diamond trim form the perfect stage for the true star of the show – a killer 1.78 carat round brilliant diamond.  Certified by the Gemological Institute of America – this bright white diamond is an E color and an SI1 in clarity.  Sparkling from every angle, this diamond is truly luxurious.  

The birthstone for the month of April is diamond, while emerald is the birthstone for May.  Emerald is also the designated gem for both the 20th and the 35th anniversary.  Perfect for so many reasons, this natural earth-mined diamond ring is available for $16,500.  Not yet on our website, it can be found in the inner sanctum…  Joe’s office.  Drop by and request a tour.  You never know…  you just might take a bit of luxury home with you. 

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

This or That – Volume 11

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Ponderable Things

Are you an antique jewelry lover or do you marvel in all things modern?  Do you delight in the rich details of Victorian pieces or perhaps you’re drawn to the clean and classic style of 2024.  At Joden, we have it all – from Georgian and Victorian to custom creations of today – it’s all here.  You can choose this, or that…  or perhaps both. 

While browsing through a box of new goods, I discovered both of these bracelets.  Each one has an appeal all its own.  First, we have a 14-karat yellow and rose gold beauty made in the late 1800’s.  Ten nearly identical links span the wrist.  Oval in shape, each one highlights a pair of rose gold vines that are decorated with two yellow gold leaves.  At the center of each one is a round milgrain-edged bezel.  These bezels are set alternately with a ruby, and a diamond, and then another ruby and so on.  It’s a true masterpiece of botanical beauty.  Measuring just shy of 7-inches, this bracelet also features a hidden clasp.  Priced at $2,800 -it’s available in store or on our site.  

Then, we have a simple triple-stranded bracelet.  Comprised of three individual strands of fully faceted ruby beads, this bracelet is completely different than it’s Victorian counterpart.  There are approximately 120 beads on each strand, for a total of 360 gems.  Each ruby has been fully drilled and slid onto a narrow piece of wire.  Extremely flexible, this bracelet is comfortable and easy to wear.  

With every turn of the wrist, each tiny gemstone sparkles in the light.  It glitters from every angle, and yet still has a casual feel.  The three strands are joined with one elegantly ribbed 14-karat yellow gold clasp.  I can’t help but admire the ease of this simple design.  Priced at just $1,175.00 – this piece is also available in our store and on our website.

At Joden, we have both of these beauties, and so much more.  Whether you prefer vintage flair or fresh new style, Joden Jewelers is the place for both.  With so many differences, I can’t help but wonder…  which ruby bracelet is your favorite?  Do you love this Victorian vibe, or are you crazy for that modern triple-strand?  

This or that?  Or, better yet…  why choose?  They pair beautifully  – get them both!  Hop on over to our site and 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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