Seeing Double

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

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

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