Joe’s Special Box – Volume 38

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

During the Georgian Period (1714-1830), the jewelry you wore was determined by the time of day.  This subtle and understated beauty was probably utilized during the morning and afternoon hours.  Elaborate diamond confections were saved for the evening.  Gracing the hand of any lady with a pair of natural pearls, this gem was crafted in a classic bypass style from 18 karat rose gold with silver accents. 

Over 200 years old, the metal has aged to perfection showcasing a glorious patina.  Six Old Mine Cut diamond accents add a hint of sparkle.  Each of the two pearls is set with closed back construction, a trademark Georgian characteristic.  In near perfect condition, this lovely piece sells for $2,700.  The age, condition, and aesthetic appeal landed this rare ring in Joe’s Special Box.  Come visit us today and try it for yourself.  

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photo by Shelly Isacco

Joe’s Special Box – Volume 7

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

The Rule of Three…  it’s a concept that states that things that come in threes are more satisfying, more effective, just more.  This triad of rings is no exception.  When I was digging through “Joe’s Special Box” this week, I found the first two Georgian rings.  I really liked the duo – but when I added in the third ring, it just felt complete.  I was definitely more satisfied. 

The Georgian period lasted from 1714-1830, well over two hundred years ago.  Pieces from this period are rare; Georgian rings in this condition are nearly non-existent.  At Joden, we have a handful – these three are my personal favorites. 

I love the subtle details that make these rings uniquely Georgian…  from the closed-back construction of the pearl ring to the primitive rose cut diamonds set in c-shaped cups – I am in awe.  Each ring features delicate silver trim (Regency period jewelry is known for it!) that has aged to perfection – the patina is absolutely divine. 

Ranging in price from $1,150 – $2,700, this trio is not to be missed.  “Omne Trium Perfectum!” 

Go to our site and look, then come to Joden and touch. 

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

In Loving Memory

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and Mourning Rings

Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter… 

Duck Face, Kissy Face, Smize, or Squnich…

Millenials are memorializing every detail of their lives, from the most mundane to the downright inappropriate – it’s all there on social media for the world to see.  I’m not averse to it…  I’ve been known to pose for a selfie or two, send out snaps and check in with my girls on Facebook – but some life events deserve more than a quick pic and a hasty status update.  Things like engagements and weddings, or perhaps when a new life begins, and certainly when a life ends. 

They were doing it right two hundred years ago.  When a loved one passed away, the bereavement process often included the creation of a special piece of jewelry; it was called mourning jewelry.  These unique treasures usually included the name of the deceased person as well as their death date.  Many also included a special compartment for a lock of hair.  These small trinkets were handed out at the funeral while more elaborate styles were worn by family members. 

These are just three of the mourning rings we have here at Joden.  Black enamel was a recurring theme in this type of jewelry (as you can see) as were pearls, urns, and flowers.  Each one of these rings is engraved (from left to right)…

  • T.T.J.  14.12.1893
  • M.H.C. Mourant died 6th Oct. 1866
  • W:  Terry OB: 24 Oct: 1809: AE 53

    

The trio of rings on the left are all very similar to each other; the hair receiver on top surrounded by natural pearls (usually signifying the loss of a child).  Only one of them actually contains hair – the other two are still waiting for someone to fill them.  The ring on the right was made in the Georgian period.  The delicate blonde tresses inside have been plaited into a basket-weave pattern completely surrounded by sparkling purple gemstones. 

    

Quite a lot of the mementos made in the 1800’s were brooches and lockets, like the ones shown here.  The two pins in the foreground are exceptional examples of the fine workmanship that mourning jewelry is known for.  The locket in the background is covered in a layer of black enamel with a pearl-centered flower on the front.  As you can see in the photo on the right, the locket appears to have never been used…  the original blue silk is still inside in pristine condition.

I readily admit that when one of my sons is doing something particularly adorable or noteworthy, the first thing I reach for is my cell phone – to capture that smile forever.  Photographs are truly worth a thousand words, and I cherish all of mine.  But I can’t help but feel that if I had a ring on my little finger (with a lock of my loved one’s hair safely cradled inside), it would be incredibly comforting to know that I carried a part of them with me every day.  I’m certain that each time I looked at the ring, I would smile.  And remember. 

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Shelly Isacco

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