Fabulous Vintage AB Beaded Sherman Jewelry

If you love vintage jewelry, every collection should contain at least one piece of fabulous, fully facetted beads. The ones I have here work so well together although only the earrings have that highly sought after Sherman signature. 

All the beads used in this "set" are of the same weight and quality, each featuring a colorful aurora borealis wash so they reflect a wide range of colors when the light hits them.  The colors range from clear to yellow, to pink, to turquoise, to teal and to purple. No doubt, one of these shades will work with whatever clothing you are wearing.  

The first piece I acquired was the gorgeous flexible three-row bracelet. It was one of Edie's pieces (you can read more about Edie in a post I did in September 08) and is of the highest quality. Edie had worked in the jewelry department of Eaton's many years ago and I strongly suspect that this piece was made by Sherman.  All of the telltale signs of his exceptional quality and craftsmanship are present from the perfectly graduated heavy glass crystals to the lovely detailing on the metal spacers.  I love how the memory wire hugs my wrist making for a perfect and comfortable fit every time.   Sensational piece and a must have vintage jewelry piece.

The round beaded brooch is such a fabulous piece of vintage jewelry. Check out how the tips of each shimmering crystal bead is capped off with a clear, round sparkling rhinestone.  This brooch is large being a full 1 3/4" in diameter and is domed to catch the light from every direction.  The back is a solid rhodium-plated disc which holds everything securely in place. Perfect for any lapel or jacket.

The five-strand graduated crystal bead necklace is a gorgeous and heavy piece of vintage jewelry.  If you don't already have one of these in your collection, get busy finding one.  They are perfect to wear with any open collar or over a sweater and can be found in single strands right up to these beautiful multi-strand creations.  This one features a lovely bar at each end studded with aurora borealis round rhinestones.  The perfect accent and with the extender, the length can be customized for a perfect fit. This particular necklace was recently purchased at a charity sale for only $5 and is in fabulous vintage condition.

Both pair of crystal drop earrings featured today were purchased at auction on eBay for a steal of a price.  One pair was less than $20 and the other was under $30.  Terrific value considering both pair are in excellent condition with Sherman signatures.  The main difference between the two are the shapes of the crystal beads used in the drops and that one pair has screw-backs while the other are clip style.

The aurora borealis wash on this type of jewelry is delicate. Be sure to store them separately where they won't come into contact with other jewelry which can scratch and wear off  this pretty reflective coating.  

Overall, every collection of fine vintage jewelry should have some of these fabulous aurora borealis coated crystal beaded pieces.  They are plentiful making them very affordable and they look as elegant and classic today as when they were all the rage back in the 1950's. You will find these at great prices online and at flea markets so keep your eyes open and make sure you add some to your own jewelry collection but don't stop there, Wear Them!! They are gorgeous!!!

Unsigned Beauties Vintage Rhinestone Jewelry

For those of you who cringe at the prices of the signed Sherman, Kramer, Weiss , Eisenberg etc. , there is a more affordable and equally beautiful option.  I have many pieces of vintage rhinestone jewelry that are commonly called "Unsigned Beauties".  A lot of these pieces are so well made and so gorgeous, it's hard to believe that the manufacturer did not take the time to mark the item with their name out of a sense of pride and for a job well done. You can find entire jewelry books devoted to these uniquely beautiful and highly collectible pieces.

Of course, there's nothing better than finding jewelry in the most unlikely of places.  The best story I have about collecting is how I acquired the simple, three-row, clear crystal bracelet shown. This lovely unsigned beauty found its way into my collection in the most unusual way. 

Two years ago, my husband and I purchased a Heritage Home that had at one time been divided into three apartments.  Not unusual for older homes but we decided to take on the expense and challenge of opening it up and making it into a one-family home again. With the blessing and help of our local Historic Society, we went to work hiring all types of contractors and builders to tear out what didn't belong and put it back together in a more-updated style. During the renovation, we found out that the large fireplace in our dining room had at some point been hooked up to the oil furnace causing so much erosion to the bricks and mortar, it needed to be torn out and rebuilt.  Not a small job by any means but we took it on.  During the demolition of the fireplace, this lovely bracelet was found deep inside the bricks where it had most likely fallen down behind the old mantel years and years ago.  It was recovered in perfect condition.   The only thing that would have made this unique find better would have been to see the Sherman signature on it but for me, this bracelet represents a special "gift" from my lovely old home.  By the way, for those of you who cringe at the thought of losing the old, original architectural details in historic properties, we had this fireplace photographed and rebuilt in the exact same style, we even used antique style bricks of the same color.   

Getting back to the other unsigned beauties currently in my collection, the blue set photographed for this post was most likely made by Sherman. There is no mistaking the quality, weight, and craftsmanship we collectors look for in his signed pieces. The earrings were purchased separately for only $5 and again no signature but all the other signs of Sherman are there. I love how the long and slender navettes used in the construction of the bracelet are set in a North/South direction and the large round cut stones combine light blue, medium blue and aurora borealis coated crystals adding lots of depth and drama.  All set in the shiny rhodium plate common in signed Sherman pieces and uses his popular push style clasp with safety chain. It's a full 7/8" wide and curves nicely around my wrist when worn.

The earrings which compliment it nicely use a similar color combination and are in excellent condition being of the same weight and quality used in signed Sherman pieces.

The clear brooch and earrings documented today were also purchased separately but use the same size and style of crystals.  The brooch is heavy and rhodium plated, similar to that of Sherman but for me the jury is still out on whether it is one of his unsigned pieces.  It is a very uncommon style for him so whoever did manufacturer it deserves recognition for producing such a beautifully layered, high-quality piece.  The earrings photographed with it are a great "match" and again, are of the same quality and weight found in Signed Sherman pieces.

Overall, anyone can put together a very impressive vintage rhinestone jewelry collection at a very affordable price.  Pieces can be found at yard sales, flea markets and even hidden in the most unlikely of places just waiting to be rediscovered and appreciated!  

Unique & Beautifully Made Artisan Sterling Silver Jewelry

A couple of years ago, I saw an article in our local newspaper advertising an upcoming  jewelry making workshop. Well, anyone who has been following my blog knows that collecting jewelry is one of my favorite hobbies when I'm not busy taking care of my 2 1/2 year old daughter. Here was an opportunity to try my hand at making something for myself and afterall, how hard could making jewelry be?

Well, let me be the first to tell you that making jewelry is not for the impatient or anyone with a type "A" personality!  There is so much more involved than I realized and I can tell you that through that experience, I certainly have gained a new respect for how perfectly created my Sherman jewelry is!!

The teacher had studied the art of jewelry making for many years, first at the Academy of Art & Design in Jerusalem and then, to further her knowledge and to learn new skills,  she completed a Masters Degree in Fine Arts & Jewelry Design in Japan.  Talk about someone who knows what she's doing.  So overqualified to be wasting her time teaching a beginner like me! The class was for about 2 1/2 hours, one night per week over an 8-week period.  In all that time, all I was able to create was the sterling silver link bracelet and the sterling silver hammered ring with a large, green cabachon, you guessed it, rhinestone.

There is so much involved, just making the tiny loops for the bracelet chain, bending them in a uniform way, filing and more filing and then linking them together took me hours!  I made a large, hollow ball with a textured finish as a charm on the end of the bracelet and again, the amount of work involved was staggering!  It didn't help that I'm terrified of propane and had to constantly use a torch to solder together links and components!  I'm sure this fear goes way back to my Bug's Bunny days when Yosimite Sam blew up his cabin with a propane barbeque! Talk about tramatic for a kid to watch!!  No wonder it's now critized for being too violent for children LOL!!!!

So getting back to the jewelry, I thought you might like a sneak peek at some fabulous new designs from her Spring Collection 2009. I've photographed a couple of her pieces and I have already listed two of her designs in my shop on Ruby Lane if you would like to see more.  She was kind enough to loan me several of her new designs to offer for sale in my shop and I will continue to upload new pieces as I receive them. Knowing what I do about how difficult and time consuming creating these magnificent, one-of-a-kind pieces are, her prices are rock bottom! I hope you enjoy viewing them, they are fabulous!

If any of you have the opportunity to try your hand at creating jewelry, I hope you will give it a go.  Believe me, you will have a newfound appreciation for the beautiful pieces you already have!

More Sparkling Crystal Clear Sherman Jewelry

Things have certainly been hectic around here for the past few weeks with company and all of the preparation that goes into getting things in order this time of year.  With most of that now behind us, I thought it would be a great time to showcase the last of my clear Sherman rhinestone jewelry pieces.  

Seeing all the snow outside made me think of the first set I'm documenting today.  This pretty snowflake-shaped brooch is substantial in size being approximately 2 3/4" wide and long.  It is done in a two-tier style common in better Sherman designs. I love the way the light plays off the long slender navette-shaped clear rhinestones. This brooch is definitely a keeper and so perfect during the Winter season.  

I have paired this magnificent brooch with a pair of large clip-on Sherman earrings featuring the same slender navette clear rhinestones set in shiny rhodium plate. They are large being a full 1" from top to bottom when worn.  The only problem with these gorgeous earrings is that I paid far too much for them.  They were part of a "set" I purchased on eBay where the inexperienced  seller stated that both these earrings and a similar style brooch were signed Sherman.  I purchased this "set" based on a price that would have been reasonable had that been true. Unfortunately, when they arrived, only the earrings were signed, no signature on the brooch.  When I contacted the seller, she stood behind her inaccurate assumption and there really wasn't much I could do. I'm fortunate to have had this happen only once.  Lesson learned! If you are buying online, ask to see a photo of that signature, don't ever assume the seller can read or knows Sherman jewelry as well as you do LOL!!

The pretty bracelet shown is one that was purchased from a local dealer and was a very good price for the size and excellent condition it is in.  It is 7 1/4" in length and features 5 rows of alternating beautiful clear and sparkling baguette and round cut crystals.  Has the common push style clasp with safety chain still intact.

When I purchased this sparkling bracelet, I already had the matching clip earrings which were acquired as part of Edie's jewelry (you can read more about Edie and her magnificent jewelry in a post I did in September '08). They have the same baguette and round cut crystals in a layered design and measure a full 1 1/4" from top to bottom when worn.

All pieces documented today are clearly marked Sherman and set in shiny rhodium plate and in excellent condition.

Like I mentioned in my last post on Sherman clear rhinestone jewelry, you can wear these exquisite designs with every color or pattern in your wardrobe from the most basic pair of jeans to pant suits or that cliche "little black dress".  There is no better way to add sparkle and glamor to your New Year's Eve outfit than with a magnificent piece of Sherman rhinestone jewelry regardless of its color!  

Before ending this post, I'd like to say "Happy Holidays Everyone" as we all look forward to another year of fun and family and of jewelry collecting of course!!!! 

 

Wonderful & Rare LEC Vintage Jewelry

Funny how you sometimes stumble across a piece of jewelry that makes you stop in your tracks and take notice. That's exactly how I felt the first time I handled the exquisite dark LEC beaded necklace and earrings shown. Originally from Edie's jewelry (you can read more about Edie in a post I did in September), I was amazed at the quality and workmanship that went into creating this outstanding set.  The beads were heavy, unique, colorful and well made. The finish was outstanding with an aurora borealis coating that was still perfect.  The clasp was so glamorous, the rhinestone colors a perfect match to the exquisite beads.  I was so impressed with this set and so surprised to see the LEC signature. I honestly thought only someone like Sherman could have produced such a high quality set.  I was wrong, this set surpassed anything I had handled with Sherman's name on it.  Why hadn't I seen this name in my jewelry books?

Even now, very little is written about this company.  All I know is that this jewelry was produced in Montreal and that LEC was the high-end brand name used by Boucher.  Even the Boucher crystal necklaces I documented a few posts back don't compare to the quality found in LEC.

The silver set was purchased at a flea market.  What caught my attention was the fact that they were presented in a Sherman Jewels of Elegance metal case but when I lifted the necklace, I was not surprised to see the LEC stamp.  Again, the quality was exceptional.  The faceted beads are heavy and of the best quality I have handled.  The clasp is pretty although not as nice as the one on the dark set. Once I saw that LEC stamp, I knew I would purchase it.  Having the bonus of the Jewels of Elegance case didn't hurt either LOL!!

Lastly, I found the wonderful hinged cuff bracelet at Vintage Jewelry Showcase on Ruby Lane (check out that store if you love high-end designer vintage jewelry and genuine gold and gemstones!).  I love the way it swirls in opposite directions and ends with a creamy white faux pearl.  The textured finish and sparkle of the amber rhinestone accents make this piece a showstopper.  As usual, the minute I saw that LEC mark, I knew I would purchase it.

Probably one of the most underrated vintage jewelry makers is LEC.  Their pieces are outstanding in quality and detail and in my opinion surpass Sherman which is saying something.  I love the Sherman rhinestones but when it comes to the beaded necklaces, LEC is definitely where it's at.  If you have the opportunity to purchase one, by all means do so, if you love quality and exquisite design, you won't be disappointed by any jewelry displaying the LEC mark!  

Vintage Sterling Silver Charm Bracelet

Sterling Silver makes up a very small portion of my jewelry collection. Yes, I still have my high school graduation ring and a lovely little engraved locket that was the only gift I can remember receiving from my grandfather who has since passed away, but the star of my sterling silver jewelry is my vintage charm bracelet.

I can remember receiving it back in the mid 70's when I was 13. It was a gift from my mother who probably didn't realize at the time, what a wonderful role this simple sterling silver charm bracelet would play in my life. Now in my late 40's (yikes, how did that happen so quickly!), this bracelet is loaded with charms that symbolize wonderful milestones and events from the first charm which was "13", to pets I had growing up, graduation, first job, birthdays (I guess I'm going to have to start watching for a 50 now!), wedding, anniversary, the birth of my lovely daughter, hobbies, places my mom travelled, places I have traveled to, methods of transportation, just to name a very few. Some have movable parts like the unique clock my mom purchased during a trip to Switzerland, some have turquoise beads, rhinestones or enamel. This may look like a standard charm bracelet to everyone else but for me, it is a wonderful and wearable journal. I can look at each charm and remember well the event that was so meaningful at the time, it was worth symbolizing in a delicate silver charm. I now have a charm on every link and am working my way around this old bracelet for the second time. Just for fun, I checked and it weighs 108 grams!

When my daughter was born, I knew I wanted to give her this same gift so we can document events in her life that are meaningful. So far, it starts with a little Kiwi bird from New Zealand symbolizing the 4 months of my pregnancy spent there, an April charm with birthstone for the month she was born, a charm of the city where she was born, one for her first big trip at the age of 3 months to meet her grandfather for the only time since he has since passed away, one for a province she has visited and the last one was for a trip she took when she was 1 1/2 to meet a niece who had just been born (this stuff happens when you have children in your 40's LOL!!). We now have a vacation booked in January and she will be getting another charm to symbolize that trip. I hope when she is older, we can sit down together and explore each charm on her bracelet and talk about what events in her life are represented by each one.

One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give are these wearable "life journals". Luckily they can still be found online and at flea markets although it is getting harder and harder to find ones that have not had charms on them at some point. There are lots of charms available in online stores so even if you can't find a charm at the time or place you want to represent, there are other options for finding the perfect one later.

To my mom, thank you so much for starting this wonderful tradition between mothers and daughters, I hope my own daughter will do the same for hers one day.

To everyone else, next time you see a vintage charm bracelet, remember that it isn't just a lovely old piece of vintage jewelry, it's a totally unique and wearable history of someone's life!

Delightful and Chunky Bakelite Bangle Bracelets

So far, my jewelry collecting has covered Sherman rhinestones, Coro thermoset and Boucher crystal beads so now it's time to take a closer look at the fun and fantastic bakelite bangles that were all the rage during the 30's and 40's. 

My collection of bakelite bangles was not a conscious decision I made, the bakelite chose me! I had a 12-month spell a couple of years ago where I was finding bakelite bangles whether I was looking for them or not!  They seemed to be everywhere, second-hand stores, charity shops, yard sale tables, flea markets and all at ridiculously low prices.  Funny thing about this though is that at the exact same time, a friend of mine who also buys jewelry in the same town and checks the same places I do couldn't find a single piece.  I guess I had them all LOL!!

The wide chunky butterscotch one with the carved diamond pattern was purchased at a charity shop for $1, the smooth orange one with the copper flower detail was purchased at Value Village (this is a second-hand chain store in Canada) for $1.49, the diamond faceted one in rich carmel was found in a box full of jewelry I had paid $25 for, the two large marbled brown ones were found by my mother at two different yard sales (on the same day!), at a flea market, I purchased a sandwich baggie that had four or five different color spacer bakelite bangles, all for $2.  I could go on and on and document how little all these gorgeous bracelets were purchased for but I think you get the message. These bracelets show up all over the place and for next to nothing if you take the time to look.

The only bakelite bracelet in my collection that was purchased from a dealer is the super wide chocolate brown carved rose one.  I paid $65 for it which was still an incredible price considering it is a book piece documented time and time again in books on vintage plastic jewelry.  

I love the smooth, chunky feel they have and the way they clang when they are worn.  They look fantastic with a warm turtleneck sweater or with a tailored long-sleeve blouse and jeans.  These colorful and beautiful bangles can provide the finishing touch to any long sleeved-casual top and pants in your wardrobe. Colorful, elegant and sophisticated, they have a place in any jewelry collection, vintage or not! If you don't already own any, keep an eye out for them, they are still plentiful and priced at a point that anyone can afford!

PS: I think I might be back on a bakelite roll!  Yesterday I went to our local flea market and found the marbled orange/brown and marbled mustard bracelets in the last photo for 10 cents each! They were mixed in a shoe box full of children's jewelry!!  See, they are still out there!!