Antique Archive

Joe’s Special Box – Volume Three

September 16, 2023March 21, 2018 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

I’m enchanted by this darling little ring. Made during the Late Victorian Period (also known as the Aesthetic Period, 1890-1901), it reminds me of a tiny crown. Popular themes in the 1890’s included bows, clovers, crescents, stars, hearts, and crowns.

Victoria mourned her husband until her death in 1901, however, her subjects had tired of the brooding decorum of the Mid-Victorian Period. By 1885, they kicked up their heels and ushered in the thriving industry of the era. Women joined the workforce and rejoiced in newfound freedoms like tennis and bicycling. As a result of this active lifestyle, women’s jewelry became smaller and lighter – rings were quite delicate.

This one is no exception. Made from 9 karat rose gold (made by using copper as an alloy), the main feature of the ring is an arch of nine square cabochon turquoise. Soldered across the top of the arch are nine gold beads, and three pearls sit beneath it. The band is dainty with small engraved accents. Simply charming.

I would wear it as a right-hand ring – most likely on my ring or middle finger. Although, it would also make a perfect non-traditional engagement ring. Modestly priced at $600, this is one antique that won’t break the bank.

Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 2

September 16, 2023March 19, 2018 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Simply stunning. Truly. This ring, hand-fabricated in the 1870’s, is a classic example of a Mid Victorian engagement ring. It features all the ear-marks of the Grand Period…

Silver was discovered in Virginia City, Nevada in 1860. It was very popular during the mid-1800’s and was often combined with low karat gold. Here, the darkened silver overlays a 14 karat gold base.
Two of the most utilized diamond cuts were Old Mine Cuts and Rose Cuts – this beauty has both. Three Old Mine Cut diamonds (.50 carat total) create the center. They are surrounded by a scalloped halo of twenty-four rose cut diamonds (.25 carat total). These bright white sparklers twinkle with every turn of your hand.
The Old Mine Cut diamonds are held in place with “claw” prongs – a new style for the period.

My favorite detail of this ring has taken nearly 150 years to develop. Just look at the gorgeous patina on the band of the ring! The oxidation of this piece brings it to life, showcasing each design element – from the split shoulder to the hand-carved lines. It’s absolute Victorian perfection.

Priced at just $2000, this ring is a steal – a true antique in pristine condition. Take our heirloom and make it yours.

“Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch.”

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

Millenial Mavens

September 9, 2023February 23, 2018 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Non-traditional Rings

In my work world, we talk engagement rings on the daily… We’re a team. We share stories, offer advice, and often dissect current trends. This year has brought an entirely new engagement adventure… millennials want to savor the experience (while simultaneously documenting it on social media, of course) and ultimately find a ring as unique as their relationship.

Today’s couples are choosing vintage. They want mixed metals, rose gold and yellow gold often paired with colored stones. 2018 is all about floral motifs, shapes, and distinctive rings.

This pairing is the absolute limit of style and individuality! First, from the estate of Tamara Toumanova, is this 14 karat gold flower ring. The curved rose gold petals bloom on your finger while the stem and leaves wrap around to form the band. Four round diamonds twinkle from inside. Wear it alone, or stack it with this charming eternity band. Crafted from 14 karat yellow gold, eleven tiny flowers circle the band, each with a single-cut diamond center. Perfect for those with an eye for exceptional elegance.

Some couples are opting to forego the engagement ring altogether, preferring instead to celebrate their union with a singular band. The antique and estate jewelry at Joden offers hundreds of choices… whether you have a vintage vision in mind or something sleek and modern, our selection will not disappoint. Here are a few of my favorites… enamel flowers, matte-finish modernism, and fabled moonstones – each one a tiny treasure in its own right. Stop in, drop me a line (carrie@joden.com), or call me for details and pricing!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

Baubles, Bling, and Non-traditional Rings

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