Joe’s Special Box – Volume 144

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

The locket…  a sentimental symbol of great joy or the deepest sorrow.  Traced back to the 16th century, these decorative compartments could conceal every little thing from the most practical to completely whimsical.  Ladies often placed a small perfume-soaked square of fabric inside her locket to ward off unpleasant smells.  

Good luck charms like a four-leaf clover were sometimes held within a locket.  Perhaps a pressed flower or a lock of hair might also be found inside.  For the more eccentric or dangerous types, a small amount of poison could be carefully hidden for just the right moment.  Queen Elizabeth I was the original initiator of keeping likenesses inside of a locket…  in the 1500’s, this was a small hand-painted portrait; today, we could simply insert a favorite photo.  

 

Shown from both the front and back sides, this late Victorian locket is made from sterling silver.  The back side that rests against the chest showcases five English hallmarks and an intricately engraved bouquet of flowers…  when flipped to the front side, multicolor enamel brings those blossoms to life.  Centering on a voluptuous pink rose, this wildflower arrangement also boasts forget-me-nots, morning glories, columbine, hibiscus, lilies and cosmos.  Bursting with vibrant hues of green, blue, white, yellow and pink – this piece is lovely.

The chain is every bit as detailed as the pendant.  Eighteen inches long and half an inch wide, this link chain is bold.  I love that the clasp is not hidden in the back, nor at the center where the locket attaches.  Instead, the oversize spring ring is situated on the side, offering ease of use and a bit of playful charm.  The locket itself measures 1.75 inches tall – an ideal size for treasured photos, a small note or whatever strikes your fancy.  The deep green fabric inside is pristine, protected by a thin piece of plastic.  Although this is not original to the piece, it is certainly useful. 

Available now for just $475, this timeless treasure is sure to be beloved in your family for generations to come.  Call today to make it yours.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Millenial Mavens

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

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