Edwardian necklace Archive

A Delicate Beauty

August 27, 2022August 26, 2022 by Joden Girl

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

Seeing Double

February 8, 2020 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Asymmetrical Things

The Edwardian Era was the shortest period in jewelry history, spanning from 1901-1915… and yet some of the most iconic jewelry dates back to that time. Platinum was the metal of choice and was often paired with yellow gold. Artisans handcrafted baubles and beauties of all kinds… there were rings and earrings, bracelets and brooches. Fashion often dictated jewelry trends… lowered necklines demanded ornamentation. The necklace became the quintessential piece of the early 1900’s.

Designs were delicate, ethereal and utterly feminine… like this lovely négligée necklace.

Made with a classic combination of 18 karat yellow gold and platinum, I am in love with this little gem. The oval centerpiece features a row of square cut rubies… it is the anchor from which a matched pair of asymmetrical drops dangle. A tiny creamy pearl is surrounded by a double halo; the inner ring set with rose cut diamonds and the outer ring set with rubies. They hang at different lengths – the signature mark of the négligée necklace.

Perhaps you’re thinking this style was named for the attention it drew to a lady’s feminine charms… just as a piece of lingerie would. And while that is a great theory, the moniker actually originated from an earlier style. Ladies were fond of wearing long strands of beads that featured several random dangles. These unusual pieces appeared to be thrown together quite haphazardly or “negligently”. And thus – the term négligée was born.

This delightfully simple piece is a welcome addition to every wardrobe. It adds the perfect amount of sparkle to a little black dress but also pairs seamlessly with jeans and a t-shirt. Priced at just $1,875 – you can’t go wrong. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, consider your shopping done!

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

All Tied Up

July 18, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Edwardian Things

This charming turn-of-the-century necklace has us all tied up in knots. From the crest of each bow loop to the tip of those bezel set diamond dangles – it is absolutely enchanting. A soft yellow gold has been topped with a layer of platinum, aged to perfection. A glorious patina (heavier in the nooks and crannies) coats the surface and highlights each diamond detail. These are clues, revealing the age… early Edwardian, made around 1900. Here are some photos from behind, showcasing the classic two tone style.

If only we could all look this good at nearly 120 years old! The pendant itself measures less than two inches in length and hangs from a 17 inch split chain. Each half of the delicate chain attaches to the loops of the most adorable little bow. Made from fine filigree, it features a series of sixteen rose cut diamonds that are hand set into the scalloped edges and pointed tips of the tails. One fully faceted diamond creates the knot in the center of the bow. It is set within a tiny milgrain-edged bezel and completes the bow to perfection.

The final and perhaps most engaging element of this Edwardian pendant are the two drops… one slightly longer than the other. The narrowest of wires connects to the base of the bow with a nearly invisible hinge. These drops get wider as they get longer and each one is set with three individual diamonds… the largest of the stones finishing the dangle. So much detail is encompassed within this relatively small piece! A piece of jewelry like this, in pristine condition, commands a big price. This beauty is available now for $1,480.00.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe