Joe’s Special Box – Volume 52

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

The array of treasures in Joe’s Special Box never ceases to amaze me…  like this little bauble, for example.  It’s just so cool!  I love every aspect of it – from the elegant sweep of the pirate cutlass sword to the precise white enamel lines on the headdress.  For a decade during the late Victorian Period, from 1860-1870, there was a smaller movement known as Egyptian Revival. 

Ancient Egypt was an inspiration for artisans of all types – the passion for Egyptian artifacts and style swept across Europe like wildfire.  Jewelry from this period is highly prized among collectors.  The simple sophistication of this brooch is the very thing that makes it as wearable today as it was when it was made.  Two rows of rose cut diamonds add a hint of sparkle to the strong lines of the carved face.  I am picturing it on a scarf, a lapel…  or converted to a necklace!  Reasonably priced at $1,750.00 – this piece awaits you at Joden Jewelers.  And as always…

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 50

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

There’s no question, some of the pieces in our collection that inspire the most reactions are scarabs.  Whether they’re genuine scarab beetles or stone carvings, our customers love them.  Deeply rooted in mystique and symbolic allure, this ancient bug has captivated cultures and dynasties for hundreds of years.  For centuries, craftsmen have integrated natural scarabs into jewels and countless others carved gemstones into this talisman.  

Some artisans utilized steatite and pottery and then coated it with layers of glaze, usually in shades of blue and green…  like this one.  While the top of each scarab is carved to replicate the actual beetle, the back of each is often engraved with names, sacred animals, or religious symbols.  The most common themes include rebirth, immortality, and resurrection.  I am obsessed with the “flip” feature of this ring…  the center rotates allowing the wearer to see the beauty in the front and back of the piece.  This ring is most likely from the Egyptian Revival period, dating to the end of the 1800’s.  It’s moderately priced at $500 and can be found in Joe’s Special Box.  

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

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