Filigree Finery

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Lacy Things

Lately, it’s been the kind of weather made for dressing in layers.  My grandma would have told me to wear a sweater, and she would’ve been right….  a long, cozy one that you can wrap up in.  The kind of sweater that’s light enough to wear under your coat, but still takes the chill out of the morning air.  It doubles as a jacket when the afternoon sun comes out.  I’m a long cardigan kinda girl – paired with black leggings…  what could be better?  This week’s necklace is the absolute perfect accessory.  

Made from 10-karat white gold, this is filigree at its finest.  All original, the pendant is suspended from a “Y” chain.  The portion that goes around the neck measures 20 inches with a center drop that extends another 2 inches.  It’s a repeating pattern of one long open link then three tiny round links, the style is both delicate and durable (evident by the age of the piece – a true antique at 100 years old).   

Dangling from the end of the chain is a lovely navette shaped pendant – the elongated silhouette adds yet another two inches to this Art Deco beauty.  Like fine lace, this interlocking wire-work is crafted in intricate patterns that are accented by beaded milgrain edges and a small engraved border.  Adding the slightest pop of color are a pair of kite-shaped synthetic blue sapphires.  They are seated above and below the center which is marked by a singular round diamond in a square setting.  There are two additional diamonds in the necklace – a marquise in the bail of the pendant and another round diamond at the juncture of the Y.  The diamond weight is minimal…  just .07 carat total.  

This 1920’s necklace offers filigree that doesn’t feel fancy.  It’s comfortable and easy to wear.  Pair it with your favorite cardigan for effortless style.  Find it on our website for just $1,375.00.  

“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 16

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and The Latest Things

This romantic beauty arrived just in time to help us celebrate Love Day!  Created in 1870 (noted by the patent stamp on the back of the bail), this Victorian pendant is a fresh find in the Joden estate department.  The rosy hue of the 18-karat gold frame is the perfect complement to the warm reddish brown tone of the chalcedony cameo pendant.

Most cameos depict a side profile of a man or a woman… not so in this case.  This unusual carving offers whimsical charm in the form of a cupid cameo.  Complete with his signature bow and arrow, this winged Roman god of love presents superior sculpting.  Each detail is crisp and precise as he pulls his arm back to load the classic recurve style bow with a sharply pointed arrow…  perfectly poised to strike his next unsuspecting target.

A simple turn reveals that this Victorian piece is reversible, offering two completely different looks.  The back side is fitted with a large oval piece of bloodstone (a.k.a. heliotrope).  This stone was a popular choice of Victorian artisans.  It presents a deep green color dotted with flecks of red.  

Cupid’s arrow definitely struck us the moment we saw this beautiful pendant.  We’re in love from top to bottom and front to back.  The rich details of the carving combined with the ornate frame are simply too good.  Splurge on the versatility of this antique gem for Valentine’s Day or any day. Moderately priced at $3,500.00, it’s available on our site…  enjoy two great looks for the price of one!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Ring Around the Rosie

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Flowery Things

A quick glance out the window reveals a just a hint of the mounds of snow and ice that continue to accumulate.  It’s February in western Pennsylvania and this weather is common.  Living on the snowbelt is a conundrum in and of itself.  The first snow is magical…  a cleansing blanket of white that envelops everything it touches.  When I was younger, it offered the promise of sled riding, snowball fights and perhaps the elusive snow day.  But today, in the midst of yet another major storm, I find myself longing for the warmth of the sun. 

With millions of white flakes falling from the sky, it seems unlikely that I’ll get my wish today.  Instead, I have soothed my soul with these cheerfully bright flowers.  The simple wreathlike design allows the gemstones to truly shine.  Constructed from 18 karat yellow gold, the brooch is a endless circle comprised of nine five-petaled blossoms.

Shown here on a neutral beige cardigan, the bold primary colors radiate joy.  There are twenty- four round brilliant diamonds not only colorless but also in shades of yellow and cinnamon; these diamonds have a combined weight of 3.00 carats.  Additionally, there are twelve emeralds weighing .85 carat, twelve crimson rubies weighing .90 carat and seven blue sapphires that weigh .65 carat.  Each color is more vibrant than the last.

Brooches are so under-utilized!  They aren’t just for cardigans or lapels (although those are still great options).  Pin this beauty on a length of ribbon to tie around your neck or wrist or clasp it onto your favorite scarf.  It’s the perfect hair accessory when you hook it onto a padded headband.  Brooches can accessorize a handbag, even a shoe or boot.  The possibilities really are endless.  

Made in the 1970’s or 1980’s, this vivid vintage brooch is priced at $4,750.00.  Bring some color into your life with this bold and beautiful modern piece.

“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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