 |
Judy Jay's Time Dances By |
|
Phone: 210-690-8454 |
|
|
--Last Updated: 12/28/2011 -- |
|
Judy Jay's Time Dances By |
|
Phone: 210-690-8454 |
|
|
--Last Updated: 12/28/2011 -- |
|
|
Victorian & Ivory Jewelry |
|
|
|
Layaway Available for Purchases of $200.00 or More |
|||
| Item: | Description: | Price: |
 VJ203 |
SYMBOLS OF VICTORIA’S REIGN ( Victorian Jewelry Jet Necklace ):“Ah! Black as jet, but long ago In dignity and lace, The ladies wore around their necks A flash of ebon grace.” Condition: Excellent. A few tiny nibbles on the back, but none visible when wearing. Size: 16” long, thistle at center is 2” wide 1 1/2" high. Faceted squares are 7/8” and 3/8” deep. |
$500.00 |
 VJ206 |
CHRISTIAN TRILOGY ( Victorian Jewelry Faith, Hope & Charity Pin /
Brooch ):
I am pleased to offer this truly divine 14KT brooch of the three great
virtues - faith, hope and charity. (c. 1870) These three virtues allow
man to share in God’s nature. Long used by many cultures, the Victorians
often referred to the trilogy of symbols as faith, hope and love.
(Victorians frequently changed things.) By substituting love for
charity it fits better into the great romantic age. In this pristine
brooch the symbols are made of Chalcedony, a family of minerals that are
milky white to bluish in color. The soft radiance and glow of this stone
makes an ethereal background for the beautifully engraved 14KT accents
to each symbol. The subtle shades of white, blue and hints of red add a
depth and mystery that seems so appropriate for this elegant piece of
history. There is an extended pin stem and C clasp closure on the back.
A superb Antique Faith, Hope and Charity Brooch to treasure for a
lifetime and then pass onto another generation to appreciate. LAYAWAY
AVAILABLE for any purchase over $200. Condition: Excellent. Appears to never have been worn. Size: 1 5/8” high, 1 3/4" wide, 1/4" deep. |
$800.00 |
 VJ202 |
STRIPES OF THE HIGHLAND ( Victorian Scottish Agate Jewelry Earrings ):
Agate Jewelry owes its popularity to the unbridled enthusiasm for all
things Scottish that swept England in the mid-1800’s. The cultural
climate in Victorian England was heightened by an awakening interest in
naturalism and a renewed fascination with Medieval Romanticism.
Picturesque Scotland became the embodiment of those interests. Queen
Victoria’s love affair with Scotland was well publicized. Following her
lead, it was not long before her loyal subjects made Scotland a major
tourist attraction – and the souvenirs most desired were Scottish
Jewels. These Sterling Silver earrings are a rare pair of fine pierced
earrings with three bands of agate, no doubt made in Edinburgh, the
center of the Scottish jewelry trade. Agate is a form of quartz. The
opaque jasper stripes are red and mustard, the milky white agate with
green inclusions is moss agate. The bands are perfectly matched and they
date to 1860-80. The edges are claw set and the silver has ornate
engraving. The backs of the earrings are flat silver. I like the fact
that these silver drops are larger than most of thin and tiny earrings
that were abundant. Whenever I look at Scottish jewelry I hear strains
of “Brigadoon” and picture Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse dancing in the
heather on the hills. How much more romantic can you get?? Condition: Excellent. Size: From the top of the drop 2” high, 1 5/8” wide, 1/4" deep. |
SOLD! |
 IV065 |
RARE HAIR COMB OF ROMANTIC ROSES ( Victorian Jewelry Ivory Hair Comb ):
Ivory enjoyed great popularity in jewelry during the latter part of the
19th Century, particularly during the 1880’s when colorless jewels
became the vogue. During the reign of Victoria the “Language of Flowers”
became a form of communication between friends and lovers. Exquisitely
hand carved, this hair comb of roses conveys the message “Never forget
that I love you.” This breathtaking curved Antique Ivory Comb is an
extravaganza of four climbing roses beginning with stems and buds and
culminating in four roses in full bloom. The roses are elevated above
the lace-like carving between each rose stem. Think of the work that
went into this museum quality comb! The Ivory patina is rich and warm
with visible grain marks. There are five strong teeth that hold the comb
firmly in place – you can wear it tucked in the back, high on your head
or on either side of your head. The teeth are quite long so let them
help you to determine where it feels most comfortable. A perfect gift
for an upcoming wedding or a bride of 50 years. Anyone will look more
elegant with this comb in their hair – and finish it off with a
wonderful shawl. The “WOW” factor is +10. Imagine yourself wearing this
captivating example of the timeless beauty and romance of roses. A rare
hairloom to pass on to other generations. Condition: Excellent. No losses. Size: 5 1/2" high, 4” wide, teeth are 2 3/4" long. |
$450.00 |
 VJ204 |
MANIA FOR ALL THINGS JAPANESE ( Victorian Jewelry Aesthetic Silver
Locket ):
This beautiful Sterling Silver Locket (c. 1880) contains all of the
traits of the aesthetic movement. Simplicity was the keynote to all
design: an economy of line, perfectly spaced composure and just one
carefully observed individual characteristic of each leaf, flower and
bird were all the elements needed to create the atmosphere and aesthetic
beauty that so intoxicated Europe and the West. The mania for all things
Japanese was on. Large silver lockets and wide bracelets were the most
successful pieces to convey the most desired “look”. On the cover of
this locket you can see engraved bamboo and fern-like foliage, some
slightly bending to the gentle gusts of wind. To add a touch of color,
an appliqué of gold wash rests on the surface of the delicate butterfly
and the two birds perched on fine branches. There is a wonderful large
bale to add a chain and the edges of the locket are grooved on both the
front and back of the locket. The back is marked “STERLING”. To own a
locket of this Japanese style will give you delight as you describe what
the change of style and ornamentation meant to the history of jewelry.
(Be sure to mention that the first pieces of “Japonaiserie” were made by
the men who hand ornamented Samurai swords until swords were outlawed by
the government.) Condition: Excellent. The locket snaps closed very securely. The inside is empty. Size: 2 1/4" high including bale, 1 1/2" wide, 1/4" deep. |
$550.00 |
 VJ207 |
A PASSION FOR THE PAST ( Victorian Jewelry Garnet Pin / Pendant ):
Garnet is the birthstone for January, but desired by all collectors of
Victorian Jewelry. The stone received its name from the Latin word for
pomegranate because it reminded early scientists of pomegranate seeds.
The 19th Century was the peak of Bohemian Garnet Jewelry mined from the
mountains of Bohemia. Placed closely together the garnets produce a
brighter and deeper color than when set singularly. Glittering Garnets
dance across the surface of this multi-layered Victorian Brooch. (c.
1860-80) Set with five tiers of different sizes and shapes of garnets,
this wonderful brooch also acts as a pendant. There is a hinged
triangular shaped bale with an O-ring in it so that the pendant will lie
correctly when you hang it from a chain. I like it worn this way because
it produces a marquise shape. As a brooch it is more of an oval. More
interesting in its design than many garnet pieces, it seems fresher and
more fascinating to the modern eye. The gems are all closed back and, as
is characteristic for this type of jewelry, have been set in gilt gold
over silver – referred to as “garnet gold”. On the back the elongated
pin stem has been shortened and a safety clasp added. During the
Victorian era Western cultures believed that garnets would enrich the
blood and provide the wearer with a long and healthy life. To me the
rich deep wine red color of garnets suggests a passion for the past.
Bring the past into your present. If you have been wanting an Antique
Garnet Pin or Pendant for yourself or need a loving gift – now it the
time to purchase this distinctive multi-functional Glittering Garnet
treasure. Condition: Excellent. No missing stones. The chain is not included. Size: As a pendant – 2” high, 1 1/2" wide, 1/2” deep. |
$475.00 |
 IV064 |
IVORY PORTRAIT CAMEO ( Edwardian Jewelry Ivory Cameo Necklace & Pendant
):
When I am shopping for Cameos I always watch for unusual pieces to add
to my offerings. I have never seen an Antique Ivory Cameo Necklace quite
like this piece. (c. 1900-20 Edwardian-Art Nouveau) The large oval
pendant appears to be a portrait Cameo – hand carved to depict a
historical figure. Such pieces featured representations of individuals
such as Shakespeare, Mary – Queen of Scots, and included Romantic poets
and novelists. The dress and hair style of the lady carved here is
possibly Georgian. Certainly it has not been Victorianized. The edge of
the pendant has a carved beaded surround with the bale also carved from
Ivory. The bale has a center line carved into it. The necklace is made
of carved oblong and round ivory beads with a tubular twist fastener.
The ivory has a lovely patina and the grain is clearly seen. This may be
a one-of-a-kind cameo necklace. Ivory has become much coveted by
collectors and prices are climbing rapidly. This portrait Cameo with its
own very special look can be worn with denim or lace – proclaim your own
sense of style! Condition: Excellent. Size: Large. Pendant 2 1/4" high (3” with bale), 1 3/4" wide, 1/4" deep. Necklace is approximately 30” long. |
SOLD! |
 VJ205 |
GOLDEN SHAMROCK ( Victorian Jewelry Watch Pin Holder Brooch ):
Small, but mighty useful, this late Victorian (c. 1890) Shamrock Pin is
actually a way to get more use out of your lockets and pendants. In
Victorian times these little pins were collected and used to hang
watches from. (The watches were made with their clock faces upside down
so that they could be easily seen.) They work very nicely to extend the
size of a pendant or locket and you can pin things on a jacket where
before you could only wear it around your neck. This gold filled, ornate
Antique Shamrock Watch Pin is accented by 3 tiny pearls and an amethyst
stone in the center. It’s all original with a C clasp on the back as
well as a good sized hook. It is photographed with a locket which is not
included. You can always wear it alone or collect several and make a
unique cluster of pins! A choice way to collect antique jewelry at a
small price. PLEASE NOTE: I am starting a new policy. My "Specials"
will be for U.S.A. collectors only unless purchased along with another
piece by an International collector.Condition: Excellent. Locket is not included. Size: 1 1/8” high, 1” wide, 1/8” deep. |
$15.00 |
 VJ196 |
CUT STEEL SWALLOW GLITTERS WITH LIGHT ( Georgian Jewelry Cut Steel Bird
Brooch / Pin ):
This large glittering Georgian Cut Steel Swallow in flight will make
your heart beat faster. (c. 1820) Cut Steel has a long history of its
very own admirers – revered in the 17th Century and again in the
Victorian period. Used as an alternative for the look of early cut
diamonds, cut steel jewelry is a highly refined process. Each small cut
steel bead or stud is hand cut, faceted, polished and painstakingly
riveted into a metal (typically brass) back piece. Take a look at all of
the rivet marks on the back of this swallow and think of the work
involved! The Georgian and Victorian eras were deeply committed to the
“cult of nature”. Birds and butterflies took center stage as popular
motifs in jewelry. Birds in flight symbolized the winged soul as it
begins its eternal journey. This wonderfully dramatic Swallow Brooch
glimmers and sparkles, creating a 3-dimensional effect with its wings
applied in two layers. The lower wing has been added on so that it is
fully extended in front of the bird’s body. The back retains its
original C clasp and pin stem. English or French in origin, resist the
temptation to shade your eyes as the light dances from one facet to the
other. (Our photos cannot nearly capture the glittering effect.) In the
last decade Antique Cut Steel Jewelry has gained increasing popularity
and the demand for these pieces is high. This large bird is the biggest
piece I have ever offered. Picture this sparkling creation perched on
your shoulder, lapel or even in your hair – if you dare! Condition: Excellent. Very small amount of expected patina. No rust, no beads missing. Size: 1 1/4" high, 2 1/2" long, 1/2” deep. (Large) |
$600.00 |
 VJ198 |
QUITE A CATCH ( Victorian Jewelry Raj Tiger Claw Brooch / Pin ):
An elaborate souvenir of the Raj era in India, this Antique Four Tiger
Claw Brooch is quite a grand reminder of the age when British “Great
White Hunters” roamed India in search of trophies of their hunting
prowess. (c. 1870-1900) Mounted in 9KT gold, the largest Tiger Claw has
three smaller, free swinging claws suspended from it. All four claws
have scalloped golden jackets that end in golden orbed tips. The
original C clasp closure remains, the end of the large claw’s jacket is
stamped “9CT” and these were probable set in England, possibly from more
than one hunt. I have never seen this claw brooch design before – it
appears sleek and modern. Quite a catch – in more ways than one! A
reminder of the British quest for the exotic. An extremely handsome
piece, literally dripping with style, to add to your Victorian Jewelry
collection. (It is a perfect match with VJ199 – the “Dainty Raj
Mementos” Earrings.) Condition: Excellent. Size: Top claw is 1 3/8” wide, 2” long with dangles, 1/4" deep at top. (Medium) |
$500.00 |
 VJ199 |
DAINTY RAJ MEMENTOS ( Victorian Jewelry Raj Cat Claw Earrings ):
The period of England's rule in India, from 1858 until 1947, has become
known as the British Raj. All manner of jewelry was produced in India
and marketed to the British. Exotic and intriguing, this pair of
Victorian Cat Claw Earrings is inset into 9KT gold. (c. 1870-90) The top
of each claw is encased in a scalloped jacket that covers the inside
curve of the claw and each tip with an orb of gold. Sometime in their
history they have been made into pierced ear posts with rectangular stud
ear backs. Collectors have made these Antique Indian mounted claws all
the rage in Fashion again. High end costume jewelry designers, like
Kenneth Jay Lane, have recreated the look of these delicate earrings for
today’s market. Authentic Claw Earrings are much rarer than the claw
pins and these dainty mementos are made as mirror images for you to
enjoy. Exotic and intriguing, cat claw jewelry lets the imagination
wander into the mysterious land of India. (These earrings are a perfect
match for VJ198 – “Quite a Catch” Tiger Claw Brooch.) Condition: Excellent. Size: 1” high, 1 1/2" wide, 1/4" deep. (Small) |
$300.00 |
 VJ197 |
RULER OF THE SKIES ( Victorian Jewelry Eagle Brooch / Watch Pin /
Pendant ):
Perceived as the ruler of the skies, the eagle rises above the earth and
soars to the heavens. Superbly crafted in 18KT yellow gold, this
ethereal eagle brooch shows the symbolic bird with wings spread in
flight, feathers carefully detailed, each one overlapping the other. (c.
1880 - 1900) His face, beak and eyes are masterfully rendered in three
dimensions, his mighty talons seem ready to catch any unsuspecting prey.
His powerful beak firmly grasps a prong set diamond that is free
swinging. Perhaps the bright and shiny diamond is the prey his keen eye
caught sight of as he surveyed his domain. The strength and majesty of
the independent eagle are reasons why it was chosen as the symbol of the
birth of our new nation – the United States of America! (Benjamin
Franklin wanted the turkey – thank goodness he was overruled.) You can
wear this elegant eagle as a brooch, a watch pin or even as a pendant.
On the back there is a nice C clasp closure with a point guard for tip
of pin, a hook to suspend a companion piece and the wing tips have tiny
rings where a chain could be attached. Birds were an image that nature
minded Victorians coveted. This magical creature is timeless as he
defines the past, present and the future. Condition: Excellent. Size: Wing tip to wing tip 2 1/2", 1” high, 1/2" deep. The diamond has not been removed for carat size. (Medium) |
$550.00 |
 VJ148 |
VOTES FOR WOMAN – SUFFRAGETTE COLORS ( Edwardian Jewelry Suffragette
Earrings ):
As the 19th Century began, women in England and the United States were
battling it out on the political front for women’s suffrage. The
Suffragettes had a color code which they translated into jewelry: green,
white & violet supposedly stood for “Give Women the Vote”. A more
complex and accurate explanation for the colors comes from Mrs. Pethick-Lawrence,
treasurer and co-author of the newspaper “Votes for Women”. She
introduced the colors at a mass rally in Hyde Park in June, 1908. She
explained: “Purple stands for the royal blood that flows in the veins of
every suffragette, the instinct of freedom and dignity…white stands for
purity in private and public life… green is the color of hope and the
emblem of spring.” The correct phrase is: “Votes for Women”. These rare
suffragette earrings are a lasting reminder of that important milestone
that led to women gaining the right to vote. (In the U.S. women won this
right in 1920.) Most of these jewelry pieces were small, symbols worn to
let other women know that the wearer was sympathetic to the cause. The
earrings are marked “9CT” for 9KT Gold and each contains tiny Pearls,
faceted Amethysts and a green faceted Peridot. (c. 1910, English) The
earrings currently have screw back findings, but could be changed to
pierced earrings by a good jeweler. Suffragette earrings are extremely
rare and seldom seen for sale because they are treasured by collectors
who will not let them go. Delicate in appearance, these petite pieces
are also indicative of the Edwardian taste in jewelry. Delightful to the
eye and steeped in history, Suffragette jewelry pieces are scarce and
highly desirable. Condition: Excellent. Pearls appear to be all original. Size: Earrings 1 1/8” long, 1/4" wide. (Small) |
$650.00 |
 VJ186 |
STOLEN TREASURE ( Arts & Crafts Jewelry Peacock Eye Brooch / Pin ):
I was very excited when I found this dazzling example of the Arts &
Crafts Movement on my last buying trip. Powerful and mysterious, this
large mythical clawed bird foot is gripping a huge Peacock Eye stone. It
appears to be reaching down from the sky to clutch its brilliantly hued
treasure – a stolen treasure gone forever. This brooch displays the
vibrancy of nature in fine and precise craftsmanship. The practitioners
of the Arts & Crafts Movement (c. 1890-1920) were revivalists of the
past. (You can see the Medieval and Gothic influence in the choice of a
claw.) They rebelled against the excesses of Victorian ornamentation. In
jewelry the intrinsic value of the materials was of secondary importance
to design and workmanship. Most Arts & Crafts artisans preferred silver
to gold and cabochon cut gem stones to faceted ones. The leg of the
powerful bird is realistically rendered in brass with a brownish patina
– every scale and claw as if made by nature. (c. 1900-1910) At the top
of the foot is an encircling cluster of leaves – giving the impression
of the leg reaching right through them to steal the colorful treasure.
Peacock Eye stones were hand crafted, glass over foil and a favorite of
Arts & Craft designers. The back of the brooch has a replacement pin
stem and safety catch closure. This timeless beauty embodies all of the
hallmarks of the Arts & Crafts movement in one breathtaking brooch. It’s
a killer combination! Condition: Excellent. Replacement pin stem and safety clasp. Size: 3” long, 1 3/8” high, 1/2" deep. Peacock Eye Stone is 1” long, 5/8” high, 3/8” deep. |
$485.00 |
 VJ191 |
THE WONDER OF UNGER ( Art Nouveau Jewelry Sterling Silver Unger
Brothers Brooch / Pin ):
Unger Bros. was one of the most creative and premier manufacturers of
Art Nouveau Sterling Silver items in the United States. This firm
reached its creative zenith from 1895 to 1907. The company’s most
popular items were decorated with fantastic Nouveau designs
incorporating flowers, heads of women, ocean waves and seashells. This
splendid large brooch is of a fashionable lady wearing a plumed hat, her
face entirely covered with a veil with a large elaborate bow tied under
her chin. (c. 1900-10) Her eyes are demurely downcast, her nose a
perfect line and her lips are slightly parted. This elegant lady brooch
has all the “bells and whistles”. The design is done in die-stamp high
relief work for which the Unger Bros. were known. The sculptural quality
of the high relief work creates a distinctive three-dimensional sense –
adding to the fantasy-like atmosphere of the design. The reverse has
been backed with a flat sheet of Sterling to give more substance. There
is a replacement C clasp closure on the back and the distinctive
hallmark with the interlaced “U” and “B” surrounded by the words and
numbers “STERLING 925 FINE”. Many of these large brooches are in museums
or private collections. Lovely to look at, thrilling to hold, a real
show stopper! Picture yourself with this worn on black velvet. You’ll be
the envy of every lady who sees you and this could become your personal
signature piece. Condition: Excellent. Wonderful patina. The two tiny pin holes on the reverse are part of the casting process. Size: Large – 2 1/2" high, 2 1/2" wide, 1/2" deep. |
$800.00 |
 VJ190 |
THE POWER OF THE HIGHLANDS ( Victorian Jewelry Scottish Agate Brooch /
Pin ):
When Queen Victoria and Albert purchased Balmoral Castle in 1848 the
heart of English society was immediately captivated with the subtle
colors of moss and heather, the mysteries of high gray castle walls and
the strict heraldry which still ruled the Scottish clans. This
extraordinary antique Victorian brooch mimics the penannular (broken
ring) brooches that were used to secure the clan’s tartan plaid to the
left shoulder of the Scottish Highlander. (c. 1850-70) Inlayed with 5
pieces of agate and 2 slices of bloodstone, this ancient stone is
actually a dark green chalcedony with flecks of red – hence the name
bloodstone. Many ancient magical powers are credited to it, including
the power to stop bleeding and preserve health. The Sterling Silver
portions are elaborately engraved, the long pin running through the
center makes a handsome accent. The three large bezel set faceted stones
are citrines. This is not a hollow ware piece - it is solid Sterling.
The back retains its original C clasp closure, elongated pin stem and a
tiny ring for a safety chain. A perfect jacket or shawl brooch that a
collector will love. The market for prime Scottish jewelry is rising
rapidly and pieces as large and powerful as this brooch are disappearing
fast. Songs and stories immortalize the fierce and turbulent past that
still haunts the Scottish soul. Regal, elegant and a touch barbaric –
this unforgettable brooch is as wearable today as it was 150 years ago. Condition: Excellent. I believe the dark agate stone just above the citrine in the pin head to be a replacement. No scratches on citrines. Size: Large – 2 3/8” in diameter, front pin stem 2 3/4" long, 3/8” deep. |
$950.00 |
| Place An Order |
