Joden Girl

Baubles, Bling and the Latest Things

The Victorian era is truly one of the most iconic and influential periods.  Spanning more than six decades, it’s split into three distinct parts:

• The Romantic Era: 1837-1860
  • Coinciding with the early years of Queen Victoria’s marriage to Prince Albert.  These years were marked by symbolic motifs like hearts, flowers and snakes.
• The Grand Period: 1860-1885
  • At just 42 years old, Albert passed away from typhoid fever in 1861.  Victoria was shattered.  She descended into a dark, deep depression that was reflected in her wardrobe and jewelry.  Pieces were heavy and somber.  Black onyx, jet and locks of hair played key roles in the jewelry from these years.
• Aesthetic Period: 1885-1901
  • Protesting mass-produced mourning jewelry, the final years of Queen Victoria’s reign were brought to life with artistic, handcrafted designs.  Prevalent themes included celestial symbols (crescent moons and stars), insects and bees.  Flowers and snakes remained popular.  

Over the course of the entire Victorian era, pendant and pocket watch chains were more than utilitarian; they were beautifully ornamental as well.  Each one featured a small slide that adjusted the length of the chain.  These tiny masterpieces incorporated decorative elements like multicolored enamel, seed pearls, diamonds and gemstones that added to their appeal.  

By the 1930’s, these charming slides had become collectible and were showcased on double-chain bracelets like this one.  The themes that dominated the Victorian years can be appreciated in each one.  Personal favorites include the opal heart surrounded by seed pearls, a cube decorated by opals on four sides, and the enameled violets on the first and last slide. 

Fifteen individual darlings have been arranged on this 9-karat yellow gold bracelet.  Fiery opals, creamy seed pearls, bright turquoise and even a tiny diamond add to the character of this carefully curated collection.  The box clasp offers sweet engraved patterns and provides an anchor for the safety chain.  

My final favorite element is small, and might be overlooked by some.  Perfectly centered on the cable-link safety chain is a simple gold bell.  Complete with a real clapper, a faint jingle can be heard when it moves.  Charming from end to end, this bracelet is available for $2,800.00.  If you’re as enchanted as we are, make it yours today.

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

Written by Carrie Martin

Photos by Dana Jerpe