New Listing on Etsy

I listed this beautiful Circa 1920 engagement ring this morning. I adore the platinum setting and I love the color of the diamond.

Choosing a diamond based on the 4 "C's" is very important to know so that one understands the grading of diamonds or other precious stones.

However, I believe the standard of beauty that is marketed tells us to CHOOSE a particular diamond based on a standard, that being a colorless and somewhat flawless diamond. Yes, these diamonds have their own beauty, but so does a diamond that was chosen for its color and was cut to enhance the characteristics of that stone. Which is what one will discover when looking at antique rings.

With the older diamond cuts like this ring, which is an Old European cut diamond... There is mastery to be able to cut a diamond to bring out its best qualities, taking in to account the color and clarity. Many gemologists consider the cut of a diamond to be its most important characteristic. The cut determines how light is reflected within the diamond and how brilliant it will be. In other words a diamond with a poor cut will appear dull, even if it has the perfect color and clarity.

Diamonds are of the earth. Each unique and beautiful. Find the one that you love.

Vintage Clothing on Etsy

I am gradually adding the vintage clothing collection that camellia has in the store onto Etsy.

Today I added this beautiful coat with Japanese embroidery. It really is what I love in vintage clothing: Asian Design, fine embroidery, and of a Organic design. I am excited to be able to offer this coat.

I have had in depth discussions about it with my very experienced friend in vintage clothing: Laura at Isadora's. We believe it to be around the time period of circa 1910-1920. "Circa" giving it a time period of within 10 years or so of the dates.

I Also love to read about fashion design and influences of other countries such as Japan.

The influence of Japan has been an inspiration to fashion for many years.

After opening the port of Yokohama in 1859, Silk became a major export.

At the end of the 19th century, major kimono shops showed interest in Western European Markets and greatly expanded their foreign trade business. Silk coats with Japanese embroidery were one of many products exported to Europe during this period.

This coat was likely made for export in Japan. While it is somewhat Inspired by a Chinese Mandarin Robe, the Robe was made and embroidered in Japan.

Source: “Fashion” A History from the 18th to the 20th Century, Vol I: 18th and 19th century. The collection of the Kyoto Costume Institute.

A taschen publication.

Pgs. 281-303

Both Volumes are wonderful.

Intaglio Ring: New Etsy Listing

A early 20th century Intaglio ring carved in Tiger's eye. Amazing detail! I love the substantial and dramatic setting. The 9 karat gold compliments the stone nicely.

I added 5 new listings on etsy yesterday: A beautiful Citrine pendant, A Victorian Seed Pearl necklace and a compass from 1910. Oh and, one of my favorite lockets: A beautiful Horseshoe locket from the turn of the century...20th century that is...