Blurred Lines

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Desirable Things

The most notable periods in jewelry are Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco, Retro and Mid-Century Modern.  While each of these eras has been defined by precise years, the truth is that the terms are not that clear-cut.  As styles evolve and change, the end of one era blends into the beginning of the next – the lines are blurred.  

Corresponding to the reign of King Edward VII, the Edwardian era is earmarked as the years between 1901-1910.  Although it is the shortest period in jewelry history, it is also one of the most influential.  Advances in platinum fabrication facilitated an entirely new style that was marked by fine filigree wire-work that created a light and airy feel.  This sophisticated style was further enhanced by a new decorative technique called milgrain – a border of delicate beads and ridges that were utilized to surround a gemstone or soften sharp knife-edged lines. Prevalent themes include garlands, ribbons, bows, wreaths, tassels and knots.

This breathtaking beauty highlights each of those things.  This necklace (the chain is permanently affixed to each side of the drop) offers small areas of dainty filigree, diamonds completely encapsulated by milgrain borders and platinum construction.  However, it doesn’t have a single bow, ribbon or garland.  The lines are cleaner, the style more simplified… details of the early Art Deco era.  

A European cut dangles from the tip – it weighs approximately .45 carat.  Five additional diamonds decorate the length of the piece and offer another .18 carat of brilliance.  Made around 1915, this necklace could easily be described as late Edwardian or early Art Deco.  When it looks this good, I’ll take blurred lines any day!  Period pieces like this are hard to find and tend to sell quickly.  We are offering this authentic antique necklace on our site for just $1,875.00.  If you want it – grab it!  Don’t sleep on this one – it’s just that good.  

“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 49

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

Simply charming…  this sweet little Victorian garland style necklace is our favorite recent vintage find!  Made near the end of the 19th century, this 14-karat gold piece is darling from end to end.  The center has a graceful contour that nestles perfectly at the base of the throat. 

Three flower blossoms complete with leaves spray across the neck.  Measuring two inches across, this necklace is perfectly petite.  A shield shaped pendant dangles from the center, it also features one tiny flower.  Each of the four flowers has a small diamond center. 

The chain is permanently affixed to each end; it is 14 inches in length (there is also a removable 1-inch extension).  Original to the piece, the chain is a delicate link style.  With an alternating pattern of three small round rings and then one larger rectangular link, this chain is an ideal complement to the necklace.  Priced at $1000 – this precious piece is available in store or online.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

A Delicate Beauty

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Ethereal Things

Affectionately called Bertie, the oldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, became the King of England in January of 1901.  He held the monarchy until his death just nine short years later in 1910.  During the nearly sixty years he spent as the heir apparent, he was kept away from politics to a great extent, focusing more on the leisurely lifestyle afforded to the elite. He traveled throughout Britain, North America and later the Indian subcontinent.  He was quite popular with the people and beloved by many.  

The Edwardian era is often referred to as the romantic age…  a brief time of pleasure between the  preceding Victorian age and World War I.  Women’s fashion enjoyed several developments in everything from hem length to accessories like jewelry.  In strong contrast to the heavy yellow gold jewels of the 1800’s, the jewelry created in the Edwardian years was delicate and airy.  

This beauty showcases all the best things that the early 20th century had to offer.  The framework of the necklace is constructed from a 14-karat yellow gold base topped with a stark layer of platinum.  Seen in profile, the line between the two metals is crisp and clean.  The overall shape offers great lines with soft curves as well as sharp corners and everything in between.  Large open expanses that show the skin beneath are a key element of Edwardian design.  

Decorating each contour of this necklace are thirty-seven European cut diamonds.  These sparkling gems have a combined weight of 1.50 carats.  Three little dangles swing charmingly from the bottom of the piece – moving with the body at every turn.  It nestles perfectly in the hollow at the base of the throat, complementing everything from a strapless wedding gown to a v-neck t-shirt.  Priced at $3,750.00, this necklace is the latest addition to our estate department and our website. 

“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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