Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Figural Things

Animals have long been a favored subject matter for artisans, craftsmen and jewelers.  These charming creatures are usually brooches.  Several iconic jewelers have adopted animal mascots – Cartier showcases the panther, Bvlgari has the serpent and Boucheron employs the cat. Over our fifty-five-year history, we have had flocks of birds, lots of lizards, more than a turtle or two… a magnificent menagerie, for sure. I have to say that this week’s pick is a rare find in more ways than one.

Clever and oh-so-cute – I’m more than a little obsessed.  Made entirely of 18-karat gold in shades of both yellow and white, this rodent is simply marvelous.  From the tiny tips of each ear to his polished tail – our beaver is incredibly well made.  In fact, I was sure he must be a designer piece.  I scoured every tuft of his textured pelt in search of a hallmark to no avail.  The only marking on this guy is the “18K” that ensures the fineness of the metal.

Not willing to give up so easily, I did a Google lens search and discovered his twin.  Amongst a zoo filled with giraffes, bears, monkeys and more sits this busy beaver.  Hand-crafted by Janine Lederman (a third-generation master jeweler), this beaver stands proudly beside a log nearly as big as him.  Granddaughter to George Lederman (founder of George Lederman, Inc), Janine hand-chased the lifelike textured finishes on this fine brooch.  Originally located in Paris, the family firm manufactured jewelry for the most prestigious French jewelers.  In 1945, they moved the business to New York.  Now, more than eighty years later, the quality is unmistakable.  

If you clicked the link, you would see that the twin is available for $4,095.00.  Complete with prominent incisors, natural ruby eyes and a small diamond on top of the log, our beaver is priced at just $1,675.00.  If you’ve been searching for a signature piece that will bring you joy every time you wear it, leave it to beaver.  He’s sure to make you smile.  

“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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