Edwardian necklace Archive

Blurred Lines

July 14, 2023 by Joden Girl

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

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

Baubles, Bling and Desirable Things

Baubles, Bling and Ethereal Things

Baubles, Bling and Asymmetrical Things

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