Patina Archive

Little Things

August 5, 2020 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Sweetest Ring

It’s easy to be awestruck by a big diamond ring; blinded by the dazzling display of light reflecting off each and every facet of that bold gem. Joden is known for diamonds that weigh over two carats each – sparklers of every shape and size, the perfect fit for every hand. We have customers across the United States – and even some in other countries who fly in just to shop our decadent array of diamonds. But don’t let those luxury rings scare you away! For every opulent jewel in our inventory there is a super sweet tiny treasure.

Dana and I have been smitten with this little beauty since we acquired it just last month. Made near the end of the Mid-Victorian period (circa 1865) from a rosy 14 karat gold, the simplicity of the design is irresistible. Nestled within a platinum bezel is an oval shaped rose cut diamond that weighs approximately .32 carat. This unique cut was inspired by the shape of a rose bud; the artful arrangement of triangular facets offers an exceptional appearance and distinctive brilliance.

The side profile reveals just a hint of design and a glorious patina that has darkened the crevices where the band meets the center. While that dark tarnish would have some running to the ultrasonic, I am in love. I’m crazy over this small detail that has taken over 150 years to develop. It speaks to the age and character of this little darling. Modestly priced at just $1,125.00… check it out on our site today.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe

Precious Patina

October 25, 2019October 23, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and Oxidized Things

Made pre-1860, it’s impossible to say whether this crescent moon brooch is late Georgian or early Victorian. What I can say is that it is near perfection. Two rows of rose cut diamonds have been handset into individual sculpted seats, while a third center row is raised and fitted with eight buttercups. Carefully fixed into each one is an Old Mine Cut diamond. A ten-petaled flower sits atop the crescent. Yet another Old Mine Cut diamond forms the middle of the blossom and is orbitted by ten pinched collets also featuring rose cut diamonds. This romantic detail is one of my favorite parts of the brooch.

These photographs illustrate the labor intensive work that was needed to expertly craft this elegant beauty. Ornate metal work is a trademark of the early 1800’s as is the two tone color of the profile… rosy yellow gold has been topped with a layer of silver… another little aspect that I adore. My absolute favorite design element has to be that gorgeous patina. Hundreds of years of exposure to air allowed this thin layer of oxidation to settle over every nook and cranny of the crescent moon. This aging process adds another dimension to the piece that, to me, is everything. Cleaning it would be a sin!

Pair the pin with these earrings to complete your look. Movement is the key to these gems! The top portion (a lovely flower) stays stationary on the lobe, while the lower part swings freely. This motion allows light to dance across the surface of the diamonds, creating a dazzling effect. A matched pair of deep red rubies form the center of each earring. They are surrounded by a ring of ten pinched collets – perfectly mimicking the design of the crescent moon!

The two tone vibe of the brooch is also duplicated in the earrings as well as that dark patina, drawing yet another parallel between these vintage charmers. Wear them alone or together, the choice is yours. Make the brooch yours for $3,480 and the earrings for $4,700. These pieces and so much more are available every day at Joden.

“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 78

September 4, 2019 by Joden Girl

Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling, and A Collector’s Things

A beautiful cross pendant… very few things have as much meaning as this simple yet significant piece of jewelry. For thousands of years, this symbol of faith has been crafted from a myriad of materials… stone, wood, and precious metal. From the most primitive to the highly ornate, nothing could be more iconic.

These two beauties are no exception… a pair of vintage pieces featuring superb craftsmanship and classic elegance.

Silver on 15 karat yellow gold – it’s a true antique treasure! The patina on this Georgian cross is glorious. I love how it pools heavily in each crevice then nearly fades away on the rounded arches. Six natural pearls and eighteen rose cut diamonds bejewel the front side of this pendant. It slides on a platinum pearl chain and is available now for $3,850.00.

This gem is an Edwardian showstopper made from 15 karat yellow gold topped with a layer of platinum. The body of the cross is accented with a series of 15 pearls and one round diamond center. The lace-like appearance is achieved utilizing milgrain edging, rose cut diamond trim and a hand pierced pattern. Worn on an 18 karat white gold chain with black enameled segments, this cross is available for $2,750.00.

Actions speak louder than words. Show your faith with an exceptional cross from Joden.

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe