tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21381492066052732012024-02-18T22:30:40.047-08:00Tropic Trading PostTropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-13463151158425872312011-01-06T13:09:00.000-08:002011-01-06T13:11:20.935-08:00Jade - The Stone of Heaven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cZEEHdnUZgK1zc0UdxUvvKsBK0lEQqzgQXZHbdLe4FaaiMfzXKAKDq4rxF7UhiCu3Ab-COAPlZdeIBwYIfbSyu7K91R38Ar0iQOuFMPbbTzngaXhvOvTfDqdrYQApiK8yeIWQ9oMmME/s1600/DSCF0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="21" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cZEEHdnUZgK1zc0UdxUvvKsBK0lEQqzgQXZHbdLe4FaaiMfzXKAKDq4rxF7UhiCu3Ab-COAPlZdeIBwYIfbSyu7K91R38Ar0iQOuFMPbbTzngaXhvOvTfDqdrYQApiK8yeIWQ9oMmME/s320/DSCF0020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I have a friend who grew up in Japan and inherited the most amazing collection of Asian treasures. The pieces range from antiques to mid-century modern and the items range from carpets, furniture, porcelains, art and jewelry. It has been my pleasure to sell many of their beautiful items for them. They have been going through a collection of jade and selecting pieces to sell. I thought I would share what I have learned about this prized stone.<br />
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Jade is the most precious of all gems to the Chinese, even more precious than gold. No wonder it is said to be the incarnation of the cosmic principle and possess the five essential virtues of Chinese philosophy, compassion, modesty, courage, justice and wisdom. <br />
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These ornamental stones were being brought to Europe from China and Central America and were called jade. For over 7000 years jade was used to make utilitarian items and artistic creations. In the mid 1800's it was realized that the name jade was being applied to two different minerals. Both were exquisite and they were hard to distinguish from each other. The end result is that there are two different stones and they are both called jade.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SyyZCIRSPGk6VznsD94JiJOveL_jL3JME4VI3JsUWtd26Bow-iPEK99JmGxhrzV0d527pZqqmahDdNhiSY2pk8nVG2uzvE-CyPEo4nUhoZ-22GwxVVnPfoa3Nkbgz9uoluWDVCC6FI4/s1600/DSCF0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="22" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SyyZCIRSPGk6VznsD94JiJOveL_jL3JME4VI3JsUWtd26Bow-iPEK99JmGxhrzV0d527pZqqmahDdNhiSY2pk8nVG2uzvE-CyPEo4nUhoZ-22GwxVVnPfoa3Nkbgz9uoluWDVCC6FI4/s320/DSCF0014.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIDXSEVqhdPgrSeZQ_QfpGeJxXX50Wnf_hdZrhi3jmfkZsA8740Z2ciTr-eQTzkDFiewuniRi7eSTkBWdhTbMry8rwamY0efU8dhsB2Cg21_P-zlE7qC6qjXbpIuCADBfm-hGH8dx0nQ/s1600/DSCF0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="23" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIDXSEVqhdPgrSeZQ_QfpGeJxXX50Wnf_hdZrhi3jmfkZsA8740Z2ciTr-eQTzkDFiewuniRi7eSTkBWdhTbMry8rwamY0efU8dhsB2Cg21_P-zlE7qC6qjXbpIuCADBfm-hGH8dx0nQ/s320/DSCF0042.JPG" width="173" /></a>Jadeite and nephrite have very different chemical compositions and are classified by gemologist as different species. They both occur in the same color and translucency range, both are very hard and they were traditionally used for the same purposes. Even though it is common to refer to both gems as jade it is more proper to use or include the species jadeite or nephrite.<br />
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Jadeite varies from translucent to opaque and from shades of green, brown, orange, red, lavender and yellow to gray and near white. Jadeite has the full range of jade's colors. Color is the most important factor in determining value. The emerald green jade, called Imperial Jade, is the most valued and highly sought after by collectors. Lavender is the second most valuable color.<br />
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Nephrite is more common and found all over the world and in greater quantities than jadeite. The greens and grays are most common but it is sometimes found in brown, yellow and white. The translucent white to light yellow is known in China as mutton fat jade.<br />
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The symbols are not visible with the naked eye but are seen clearly with a magnifying glass. The right eye appears to have the letters LV, possibly for Da Vinci name. There are symbols in the left eye as well but more difficult to make out. Symbols were also found painted in a bridge in the background of the painting.<br />
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Art historian Silvano Vinceti said the letters B or S, or possibly the initials CE, were discernible, a said they were clue to the identity of the model who sat for the painting. The Mona Lisa has often been identified as the wife of a Florentine merchant, but Vinceti disagreed, claiming Leonardo painted the Mona Lisa in Milan. Numbers found on the back of the painting suggest it was painted in the 1490's when Da Vinci was in Milan and that the model was from the court of the Duke of Milan.<br />
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On a trip to France I was able to visit the beautiful town of Amboise and the chateau where Leonardo spent the last years of his life. He may have been buried at the Chapel of Saint-Hubert on the grounds but mystery surrounds his final resting place as well.<br />
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<span style="font-family: arial;">It's the perfect time to wear dazzling jewels. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherivnRz0zeXS67yhoNbAmMu3U5hHjGlKoTgmv7pTlXdG9NmGp0zNkP068Un72ku4QceiXHK60QFX_TF-WUzKeShFc97lh6ARcTmI5u-V_sY3sbrqO5R9_9IzxMVHY_0Pket_epNM5WMk/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="42" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherivnRz0zeXS67yhoNbAmMu3U5hHjGlKoTgmv7pTlXdG9NmGp0zNkP068Un72ku4QceiXHK60QFX_TF-WUzKeShFc97lh6ARcTmI5u-V_sY3sbrqO5R9_9IzxMVHY_0Pket_epNM5WMk/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenneth Jay Lane</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZN0HMdisJl7LeEsH7thvCvehyphenhyphenOPDnv5pA4_ZlT0sYG6aoZLpFoCwpf-2PJf7kXaa5M9_swOI4QI2kVkEljLgWksRjOAvjdInDQNBfi9y_vv-e-RgANTvMRtaS2ngi19DzsdonfxRAJkE/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="43" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZN0HMdisJl7LeEsH7thvCvehyphenhyphenOPDnv5pA4_ZlT0sYG6aoZLpFoCwpf-2PJf7kXaa5M9_swOI4QI2kVkEljLgWksRjOAvjdInDQNBfi9y_vv-e-RgANTvMRtaS2ngi19DzsdonfxRAJkE/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juliana</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1SQZe4w_1GhmEWC0fmxeF7Zq9C_qa7JYvl1oZZZSVkYYujcClTcQQxM9QZbbIiQ-Hp2srzkO9baofiMzv_3Od6-As3nb87KV36uHPe9eRuAPQzH-iBuXy5okKgrA4Wkm-ZN0SEsrDyo/s1600/DSCF0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="44" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1SQZe4w_1GhmEWC0fmxeF7Zq9C_qa7JYvl1oZZZSVkYYujcClTcQQxM9QZbbIiQ-Hp2srzkO9baofiMzv_3Od6-As3nb87KV36uHPe9eRuAPQzH-iBuXy5okKgrA4Wkm-ZN0SEsrDyo/s320/DSCF0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Unsigned Beauty</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdM66E4wcq4olekuTul8XSTnP4FfbNdMWLzYvtKkWGpDbyneq090eGyPB3NsQBSjL9G97CBdkwUGzRghcpqz-d78EfvUd67finbYktBll_kCusMC2aMhjxfBaIgn2zzBv9bFgGb-Vvgps/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="45" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdM66E4wcq4olekuTul8XSTnP4FfbNdMWLzYvtKkWGpDbyneq090eGyPB3NsQBSjL9G97CBdkwUGzRghcpqz-d78EfvUd67finbYktBll_kCusMC2aMhjxfBaIgn2zzBv9bFgGb-Vvgps/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laguna</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;">.</span><br />
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Antique jewelry crafted of precious metals and gemstones can be an affordable luxury. The craftsmanship in the beautifully detailed designs of antique jewelry is becoming a lost art. The hand work in antique pieces make them unique. Many of the elements used in these designs are becoming harder to find as well. So, while contemporary jewelry is valued based on the elements used to make up the piece, antique jewelry may cost less but have a greater worth because of the fine workmanship and rare stones and gems. And, an antique piece will appreciate over time. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBOAmlNV2FawduhjKHwDe7Eci1c2srIZRWE8bwuMs-RMgGHoloGT5Rk8EmQOioPjhgQz0koIu6l9-TGVvR0JOKG1K9pbUs0M3i_YcHr9oxrXxqnX_QaZfQFQNdkjelwF0ExiJrh0EAHNU/s1600/DSCF0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="160" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBOAmlNV2FawduhjKHwDe7Eci1c2srIZRWE8bwuMs-RMgGHoloGT5Rk8EmQOioPjhgQz0koIu6l9-TGVvR0JOKG1K9pbUs0M3i_YcHr9oxrXxqnX_QaZfQFQNdkjelwF0ExiJrh0EAHNU/s320/DSCF0030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Carved Ivory Chrysanthemum Earrings <br />
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Shell Cameo in Sterling Silver Frame<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwITM7WaEFd91mBOeDpdtipNo6KyUoNtmHKAq5WwpmGl3HASIhdR-EDugCyWX0BndkigRL9i5kIYB8Q__UGB4pp3O6OG3SyS317ssUXuD3obLzQz8wx0EDElQh4hJcf_wBAyjbAl2emg/s1600/DSCF0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="162" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwITM7WaEFd91mBOeDpdtipNo6KyUoNtmHKAq5WwpmGl3HASIhdR-EDugCyWX0BndkigRL9i5kIYB8Q__UGB4pp3O6OG3SyS317ssUXuD3obLzQz8wx0EDElQh4hJcf_wBAyjbAl2emg/s320/DSCF0050.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Rare Alexandrite and Pearl Lavaliere <br />
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Taille d'epargne Bracelet<br />
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Amethyst and Pearl Festoon Necklace<br />
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<script type="text/javascript">rubylane_peek(536414, 'thumbs', 2, 6)</script>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-9973223204207183772010-12-16T16:36:00.000-08:002010-12-16T16:36:45.136-08:00Look What I Found<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EpESellwgSIb4Ni9rfYZHNMJa6D_dKMmV6U_jLO8wETJeyUOnS48iv5W8nFcCzy022a-wQMfx5xxZ27bvwVxYOJ6tDVAp4YadYlKrcXXGkWeD1C1fURp4EnB1RIm9U1ad8CFlBp-GOI/s1600/DSCF0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EpESellwgSIb4Ni9rfYZHNMJa6D_dKMmV6U_jLO8wETJeyUOnS48iv5W8nFcCzy022a-wQMfx5xxZ27bvwVxYOJ6tDVAp4YadYlKrcXXGkWeD1C1fURp4EnB1RIm9U1ad8CFlBp-GOI/s320/DSCF0006.JPG" width="320" /></a>Every collector has something they search for to complete their collection. We look for that piece we have seen or read about that makes our heart race. For every person it is different and for different reasons. My Holy Grail of jewelry is the elusive Har Cobra. The cobras are rare and expensive. I knew that one day I would own one but I thought it would be way in the future. I can't explain my excitement when I found this treasure in an estate. OK, I found it. Can I negotiate a price I can afford? Happily I did. Now I want to show him off. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGpVOG3jY7L4tU59vSwQyfnQU8NPdHRlnq34PEijf6WixqqZ-HbAhd6-03l0M7NQzcxC6sR_mY7Fl3llTEoG0plNGdt26D9pEWuL5zndISmv0ambn2PLarHf3ZwJbZ0SbMclDqdL5PbE/s1600/DSCF0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGpVOG3jY7L4tU59vSwQyfnQU8NPdHRlnq34PEijf6WixqqZ-HbAhd6-03l0M7NQzcxC6sR_mY7Fl3llTEoG0plNGdt26D9pEWuL5zndISmv0ambn2PLarHf3ZwJbZ0SbMclDqdL5PbE/s320/DSCF0007.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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I'd love to hear your stories about what you collect and what your quest is for.<br />
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<script type="text/javascript">rubylane_peek(536414, 'thumbs', 3, 4)</script>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-5531540271340456432010-12-15T16:46:00.000-08:002010-12-15T16:46:34.554-08:00Hull Pottery<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJ2Mo84WFmEE_aBce2wkIq1KmVPJE7T8JVGbtHQitvvtT47kU0wZkwipUs3wHIH-UK9JNEllFOU5d8LfUZgsAtWoGicN0KS6G6gjgh-5I5Ak7KQO1XFrVMEULiCJBTQFyBGOCSCKmOeU/s1600/DSCF0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="108" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJ2Mo84WFmEE_aBce2wkIq1KmVPJE7T8JVGbtHQitvvtT47kU0wZkwipUs3wHIH-UK9JNEllFOU5d8LfUZgsAtWoGicN0KS6G6gjgh-5I5Ak7KQO1XFrVMEULiCJBTQFyBGOCSCKmOeU/s200/DSCF0044.JPG" width="200" /></a>I have always loved Hull Pottery. The color and shapes of the vases are fascinating. We had many pieces in our home when I was growing up. A lot of them were wedding gifts to my parents who were married in 1949.<br />
These beautiful vases are also favored by many collectors and there is even a Hull Pottery Association.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAGvTUFWvgywjui01CO2sAbgGeU7PdYN-FeWMOGLLJyoK0HnDImQotKfaI1QwpJlCQ2m_0v-gF0woM_3kleMNTKTsvNs7eowZBn7Rs3Gvnvh-2yORY5e5AM2Xr1hrd1b0DGJ1k3x0gkNA/s1600/DSCF0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="109" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAGvTUFWvgywjui01CO2sAbgGeU7PdYN-FeWMOGLLJyoK0HnDImQotKfaI1QwpJlCQ2m_0v-gF0woM_3kleMNTKTsvNs7eowZBn7Rs3Gvnvh-2yORY5e5AM2Xr1hrd1b0DGJ1k3x0gkNA/s200/DSCF0050.JPG" width="200" /></a>The Hull Pottery Company began manufacturing in 1905 in Crooksville, Ohio. The first items were dishware and utilitarian items. In 1917 they began making art pottery. The most collectible pieces were made from the 1930's through the 1950's.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2QAF0zDGOxQv-4-pP7-i0HxP6qQzZ5kBVaq8OX47gvSBKr-IFIBiWGv5vihyphenhyphen3nz0Pbb28Vwfv1BbVz3NrVMlCwE0OApI9euP9iUn2EU5jXZ4m5dfecfItehZtx3yTPCCwGSrqw5bVFw/s1600/DSCF0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="110" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2QAF0zDGOxQv-4-pP7-i0HxP6qQzZ5kBVaq8OX47gvSBKr-IFIBiWGv5vihyphenhyphen3nz0Pbb28Vwfv1BbVz3NrVMlCwE0OApI9euP9iUn2EU5jXZ4m5dfecfItehZtx3yTPCCwGSrqw5bVFw/s200/DSCF0053.JPG" width="200" /></a>The Hull Pottery Company began manufacturing in 1905 in Crooksville, Ohio. The first items were dishware and utilitarian items. In 1917 they began making art pottery. The most collectible pieces were made from the 1930's through the 1950's.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbboc4uqBDNO0j_zNdNC5JMbFRIVP5Jj1T8N60OZ6aOm2OoF1_nhYU9gk4ZFrcVP_-clOzqC2TB2Saj3LTYVPkBlkxrtCudUBggx7P2LgcE5olQ-zKh6bipSOg6oPeZXuTMEhxd64254/s1600/DSCF0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="111" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbboc4uqBDNO0j_zNdNC5JMbFRIVP5Jj1T8N60OZ6aOm2OoF1_nhYU9gk4ZFrcVP_-clOzqC2TB2Saj3LTYVPkBlkxrtCudUBggx7P2LgcE5olQ-zKh6bipSOg6oPeZXuTMEhxd64254/s200/DSCF0047.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Kq-zF38yevqLqbz7GVAI4YiacVISsuyEENufWdFDGPamqMGYdX6I7kidfZZpgA1eAEV91Pu0fUuLzewdk86idne8GnRPBV01vMheEaYMhXt1ISl9KZ_cdPrk2CeOneNj6J7iehH4YnM/s1600/DSCF0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="112" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Kq-zF38yevqLqbz7GVAI4YiacVISsuyEENufWdFDGPamqMGYdX6I7kidfZZpgA1eAEV91Pu0fUuLzewdk86idne8GnRPBV01vMheEaYMhXt1ISl9KZ_cdPrk2CeOneNj6J7iehH4YnM/s200/DSCF0046.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
The pieces made before 1950 were marked Hull USA and Hull Art USA on the bottom. They may have paper tags as well. After 1950 the bottoms were marked Hull in script or block letters. Every piece is marked with an item number.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-59747577257769476462010-12-13T15:02:00.000-08:002010-12-13T15:03:26.786-08:00For The Birds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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Bird figurals are always a popular theme for costume jewelry. Birds capture our imagination and we envy their freedom of flight. They are the perfect pallet for jewelry artist to work their magic. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjl7USHBjkCe4IL0ny6cIF4XZeIZelC-LPWdHxxTSR-SzEu4x7Mx8dnJ7QpCocO6H-OLtgcJFBZbGMX1NzgN_bb17Aj3q8hxEIFfM58eqIcwpS85h6f87Kl1tEDvOOMErZaB1V35bmw8/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="33" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjl7USHBjkCe4IL0ny6cIF4XZeIZelC-LPWdHxxTSR-SzEu4x7Mx8dnJ7QpCocO6H-OLtgcJFBZbGMX1NzgN_bb17Aj3q8hxEIFfM58eqIcwpS85h6f87Kl1tEDvOOMErZaB1V35bmw8/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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This peacock brooch is a Panetta creation. The quality is exceptional and as with all of their work it has the look of fine jewelry.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjm_6HyVGm98tt44OnNAeCGBoC4LL698lV_g6amqpkiYb52VjKYVEjDm8Ux54PHG6qV6MRvHhQzUuVmhEVqIUpkelEVuu7e6fTtZT85pgUhq3t8OS6HDisI4oJaensVriJEBMKwhyphenhyphenZPU/s1600/DSCF0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="34" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjm_6HyVGm98tt44OnNAeCGBoC4LL698lV_g6amqpkiYb52VjKYVEjDm8Ux54PHG6qV6MRvHhQzUuVmhEVqIUpkelEVuu7e6fTtZT85pgUhq3t8OS6HDisI4oJaensVriJEBMKwhyphenhyphenZPU/s320/DSCF0034.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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"Kissing Peacocks"<br />
A Nolan Miller design<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicl_o7ZKQdhzit4eilK9LgSf8lAlqyaxwEF-Z3bzHSu76i5RXAt-TNKmGAq779F9SeR_CAl_c8rQysT1st2mQmLUc7cznIs5cRS1v3yzxuG1BLjiwlCjeZj_5ALJqrkp0172M1dv6oNl0/s1600/DSCF0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="35" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicl_o7ZKQdhzit4eilK9LgSf8lAlqyaxwEF-Z3bzHSu76i5RXAt-TNKmGAq779F9SeR_CAl_c8rQysT1st2mQmLUc7cznIs5cRS1v3yzxuG1BLjiwlCjeZj_5ALJqrkp0172M1dv6oNl0/s320/DSCF0024.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Lea Stein, Paris <br />
Created with her unique layered<br />
and compressed acetate process.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ui5ql-ti2rT6kRoPEidBsrwPaxjH9hwVlmxQrYDTfRiyi3zBICestGIGdJm3-FQvslN8NZaNBTRkTwo3hz4LTT6Fh3M-G20L4CSP6M1B6oq9M_P4lOEpffSD9phoso_Z-3tXf8MKpLQ/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="36" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ui5ql-ti2rT6kRoPEidBsrwPaxjH9hwVlmxQrYDTfRiyi3zBICestGIGdJm3-FQvslN8NZaNBTRkTwo3hz4LTT6Fh3M-G20L4CSP6M1B6oq9M_P4lOEpffSD9phoso_Z-3tXf8MKpLQ/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Hand carved and hand painted Takahashi hummingbird. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoxj__6mc0qlQO3s27zSoSaSMnl1nzwb0fsJNirZ0st9S314hchdzu0jG_a2acS7NrbP6ypjlaDH8leRYger-CAXxRH6nF2WAScWQdNOdkm0ARPuLdy8E5UXOS1vUClmr-3wUCLsW_J0/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="37" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoxj__6mc0qlQO3s27zSoSaSMnl1nzwb0fsJNirZ0st9S314hchdzu0jG_a2acS7NrbP6ypjlaDH8leRYger-CAXxRH6nF2WAScWQdNOdkm0ARPuLdy8E5UXOS1vUClmr-3wUCLsW_J0/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Coro Heavenly Swallows Duet and earrings. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPbQ802P4cZxLed6Qw2YgvBUkgNzFKdfIxTzQBxU5aQDeLyow9h4CEXgvNC7aLecjAoVJcG2w1h3hssmqX6llXKT4H_1Y1lqo6qtoD7e5txKe5_RZ5Lt857mh9-SAfFrEMcMduZcGJ1U/s1600/DSCF0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="38" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPbQ802P4cZxLed6Qw2YgvBUkgNzFKdfIxTzQBxU5aQDeLyow9h4CEXgvNC7aLecjAoVJcG2w1h3hssmqX6llXKT4H_1Y1lqo6qtoD7e5txKe5_RZ5Lt857mh9-SAfFrEMcMduZcGJ1U/s320/DSCF0007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Matisse Renoir copper and enamel stylized bird brooch, "Windsong". <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZKPz5oEDa-uHGRdggnPgFD2-9jhFBpG1wM_HfrdzMzw9GG3ha55PCaADjsHan-cmTCdd7vpJZNQ2tskL0a71AjvRdlHSmB5AuFzQGKuE0ikF07hlvCkdA3jHbNOLqnIc_hOO3uluIJA/s1600/DSCF0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="39" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZKPz5oEDa-uHGRdggnPgFD2-9jhFBpG1wM_HfrdzMzw9GG3ha55PCaADjsHan-cmTCdd7vpJZNQ2tskL0a71AjvRdlHSmB5AuFzQGKuE0ikF07hlvCkdA3jHbNOLqnIc_hOO3uluIJA/s320/DSCF0022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Boucher Peacock<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKXxTep2JeiHIfzEnIq9Rjca57b2DXsZf0h66AV1NNzQKuwDGbSS_WNcEOXotD643h0AcvRXnYlyebs6JLih1mwf_i4i8c-vSFnYx-wnZwfjK-bSd50tu3QztZcC_O0GKkIRZoIdhfQY/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="40" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKXxTep2JeiHIfzEnIq9Rjca57b2DXsZf0h66AV1NNzQKuwDGbSS_WNcEOXotD643h0AcvRXnYlyebs6JLih1mwf_i4i8c-vSFnYx-wnZwfjK-bSd50tu3QztZcC_O0GKkIRZoIdhfQY/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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A 1930's or 40's enameled brooch with large paste stones.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSKh9IUtvIPoWf8hjJ9w3qgeL_xOD3GouiaQ6uBFrNSA3YRwNow9dNpw7-PPshYGTepF926GHve1ThYJdSd2f4gx_KVeQuqQAFyHCeJTVVpXzy2iWETHyaMgxCkbsKAqZ9fPsFiMnY5Q/s1600/DSCF0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="41" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSKh9IUtvIPoWf8hjJ9w3qgeL_xOD3GouiaQ6uBFrNSA3YRwNow9dNpw7-PPshYGTepF926GHve1ThYJdSd2f4gx_KVeQuqQAFyHCeJTVVpXzy2iWETHyaMgxCkbsKAqZ9fPsFiMnY5Q/s320/DSCF0025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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BSK enameled peacock<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRYZuWM85a20Rqi04GIXgWCPqYZXjAlsYXmCwPfzVhTQCiIUKBk6f_xrQkqiW16GjcOeWBxgCuCZWE81SJ9T7qdSVZx8vONs-Hg-xoFfjenQmdp1Su_1B-9UnTmmUXTeD1hBwDX_nBO4/s1600/DSCF0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="42" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRYZuWM85a20Rqi04GIXgWCPqYZXjAlsYXmCwPfzVhTQCiIUKBk6f_xrQkqiW16GjcOeWBxgCuCZWE81SJ9T7qdSVZx8vONs-Hg-xoFfjenQmdp1Su_1B-9UnTmmUXTeD1hBwDX_nBO4/s320/DSCF0023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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A jeweled and enameled Boucher Hummingbird<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL34AX7bf585Ct_LwFZNtHJYnhp2xpALO_feQwIlCQX3XC7eqX8oLK7yepGEedx1yW0qJL4ddpE3MhRrVwGX7vxPDcxcRhLbB8Dg2vgkhd6DTcih-iD2yYf3Xr7Dzjv0cwi9r0_xM1iXY/s1600/DSCF0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="30" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL34AX7bf585Ct_LwFZNtHJYnhp2xpALO_feQwIlCQX3XC7eqX8oLK7yepGEedx1yW0qJL4ddpE3MhRrVwGX7vxPDcxcRhLbB8Dg2vgkhd6DTcih-iD2yYf3Xr7Dzjv0cwi9r0_xM1iXY/s320/DSCF0017.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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This is a pretty DeLillo brooch covered in blue beads to create a stylized modern design Christmas Tree.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaSGCZXSb_J9JTkh2dHZpzhsmV2qDYo7FU3HmIOPxXCwm4-WOtKR1fEzWIzQEKAAgW4CRmPtgfZHaQiQKHKZjvItpJi1GRxn_RQl6C9nHi_KS8SuNr3Es1iBUxCwC6dX05D69AaZuGBU/s1600/DSCF0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="31" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaSGCZXSb_J9JTkh2dHZpzhsmV2qDYo7FU3HmIOPxXCwm4-WOtKR1fEzWIzQEKAAgW4CRmPtgfZHaQiQKHKZjvItpJi1GRxn_RQl6C9nHi_KS8SuNr3Es1iBUxCwC6dX05D69AaZuGBU/s320/DSCF0019.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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Swoboda uses real turquoise and amethyst stones on this<br />
mosaic like Christmas Tree brooch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCkFt8g7jV0txayhW_kFlDgCGVrSuRcLXWp3l0fqfjy6Lw6u-p19ulIkuWhw0DU1oxCVmdIoZiI6Xdo0aGfCoSuypQSuoGnC0JL5eJVYuRDqKKbXYzXWZ55NjhJdnoRDDPulJc2PDUdc/s1600/DSCF0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="32" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCkFt8g7jV0txayhW_kFlDgCGVrSuRcLXWp3l0fqfjy6Lw6u-p19ulIkuWhw0DU1oxCVmdIoZiI6Xdo0aGfCoSuypQSuoGnC0JL5eJVYuRDqKKbXYzXWZ55NjhJdnoRDDPulJc2PDUdc/s320/DSCF0013.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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Mylu created a Christmas Tree brooch of enameled poinsettia flowers with rhinestone centers. <br />
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An unsigned rhinestone beauty of a Christmas Tree brooch.<br />
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<script type="text/javascript">rubylane_peek(536414, 'thumbs', 3, 4)</script>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-65649568932619091902010-12-10T12:14:00.000-08:002010-12-10T12:14:10.821-08:00The Paris Etching Society<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJO1HSnUBhW4H3YkF_EQmiqQVN8ukh0g2duE4pk-pRKTXJMQRuqRVjCd_e5ViPJXydOdZg4bVN8MJAbe0sIw28ZeFEsGXVdbwOt5xbtNFxb27RL9GOCcWZZ59egj3-y6lswKG_yCCwCFU/s1600/DSCF0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="28" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJO1HSnUBhW4H3YkF_EQmiqQVN8ukh0g2duE4pk-pRKTXJMQRuqRVjCd_e5ViPJXydOdZg4bVN8MJAbe0sIw28ZeFEsGXVdbwOt5xbtNFxb27RL9GOCcWZZ59egj3-y6lswKG_yCCwCFU/s320/DSCF0028.JPG" width="240" /></a>These wonderful etchings by Louis Icart hung in my grandparents house during my childhood. As a little girl I would look at them and imagine the woman in the prints were pictures of my mother before I was born. I could see a resemblance because my mother had platinum blond hair that she wore in a pin curls. And, in the deep south, hydrangeas were all around the house, so it made sense to me. I loved these pictures and years later they were given to me.<br />
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I knew Louis Icart was a renowned artist, probably most famous for his erotic etchings but also know for works featuring his wife as model. I learned that these particular prints were produced by "The Paris Etching Society" in New York in the 1930's and 40's. They produced fine quality reproductions of French etchings and brought art into the homes of people at all levels of income.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQFx12FDRz8LJnyl9GU_eeSgVCL82D3kbvTd_Wi5HdQfaZBsvr7fNTZCOZ1hdj4NiEHrjFpnUG8B1HZefhKet_G9AOiXAClb8xVWrlnoiOeKvBphQ478XZ3HiJKw42AvyRWMWU6YGHL8/s1600/DSCF0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="29" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQFx12FDRz8LJnyl9GU_eeSgVCL82D3kbvTd_Wi5HdQfaZBsvr7fNTZCOZ1hdj4NiEHrjFpnUG8B1HZefhKet_G9AOiXAClb8xVWrlnoiOeKvBphQ478XZ3HiJKw42AvyRWMWU6YGHL8/s320/DSCF0025.JPG" width="240" /></a> <br />
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I always called the print that I now know to be titled, 'Symphony in Blue", the hydrangea lady. I love the way the hydrangeas in the vase spill onto her hydrangea covered dress. The other is called Girl in Crinoline. The background is shades of gray while her iconic Parisian frock is soft shades of blue and pink.<br />
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</h3><a class="cssButton" href="javascript:void(0)" id="previewButton" onclick="void(0);" target=""><div class="cssButtonOuter"><div class="cssButtonMiddle"><div class="cssButtonInner">Preview</div></div></div></a>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-75694472790444104442010-12-09T14:04:00.000-08:002010-12-09T14:04:14.117-08:00The Sterling Button Company<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtT8Fl_iGWvhWmnUyeNS6CE0qGjC15KQSMTxFXO2GAKM6t8OqID0jGAR-yttZOWezJ6R8V2yDz4W0xYwcZ1eSPcHc9v-iGdwMjba26DCQeUVJZ1PX4ORAlw_A7cGxKOlfpSQRgThon5g/s1600/DSCF0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="25" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtT8Fl_iGWvhWmnUyeNS6CE0qGjC15KQSMTxFXO2GAKM6t8OqID0jGAR-yttZOWezJ6R8V2yDz4W0xYwcZ1eSPcHc9v-iGdwMjba26DCQeUVJZ1PX4ORAlw_A7cGxKOlfpSQRgThon5g/s320/DSCF0012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One of my favorite necklaces is an unusual piece from the Sterling Button Company. All I can find out about the company is that they were a part of a large button and textile company that operated from 1904 until 1997 in New York City. The original company was, Max Turkeltaub and Sons. Max Turkeltaub was born in 1864 and died in1969 at the age of 105!<br />
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I have only seen a few pieces of Sterling Button Company jewelry over the years but the designs are always unique. Turkeltaub was a Russian immigrant and I can only imagine that his heritage influenced the designs since I have been unable to come up with any information about the company's jewelry. The metals are marked with ornate stampings and designs and beautiful art glass is featured. This is the only necklace that I have ever seen by Sterling Button Company.Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-7278802488455280582010-12-08T15:49:00.000-08:002010-12-08T15:49:29.684-08:00Mysterious and Beautiful StonesI, first of all, consider myself a dealer of vintage costume jewelry. That is not to say that I don't love vintage jewelry it's just that I approach it in a way that allows me to let pieces go and bring joy to someone who also loves and appreciates the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage jewels. <br />
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There are pieces that pain me to see go. Some I hang on to till I'm ready to let them go and there are those that over stay their welcome. I have decided that those that are around for a while are just waiting for a certain someone and when they go to a new home it makes sense. Then there are pieces that mean more than beauty. <br />
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I began selling jewelry in earnest when a friend brought me her mothers costume jewelry to sell. I've been selling jewelry for her for years so from time to time she shows up with a box of treasures that she wants to sell. I have had the privilege to handle many beautiful and rare pieces that belonged to her mother. One day she showed up with the most stunning parure. I had never seen anything like it. The glass stones had an incredible iridescence and changed color magically in he light. Then she told me that she wanted to give me her mothers amazing jewelry set. I was thrilled to have it and even more thrilled that she would give me her mothers jewelry.<br />
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Now I have seen this set a few times over the years. This is the only design that I have seen these stones used in. None of the pieces are signed but I have seen the necklace with a Schiaparelli hang tag. The stones are beautiful and mysterious and this is one set that I will not part with.Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-18564442012630018742010-12-07T13:14:00.000-08:002010-12-07T13:17:39.669-08:00I Love Har Jewelry<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVKbZmUPPdiawZbEOzTkTihnRScCRcvlm14pWzRFZ4yyIDarCGQt6G0wOWzDam9QrI-4TTQabWQL3Iu0jlvZ2JBkX6ABuRMUXp8odzjLXQ0-xYuecGhT5AQTL_2HhqQuqywP-7SwWC1A/s1600/DSCF0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="45" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgL1yD_5MeGQOkBH7aDAL-9Nr9bIlVbvCrtjLHC9Gmbj9waI7XqtDWq2mAWtS_AL0KRlTsh8jpN-7Dv2XJpAjX9vH_0gaDi_ItUJdauS47FSVoiBaG9kBGs9W3XcIU5l7ob_tIk2pUfY/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="46" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgL1yD_5MeGQOkBH7aDAL-9Nr9bIlVbvCrtjLHC9Gmbj9waI7XqtDWq2mAWtS_AL0KRlTsh8jpN-7Dv2XJpAjX9vH_0gaDi_ItUJdauS47FSVoiBaG9kBGs9W3XcIU5l7ob_tIk2pUfY/s200/DSCF0002.JPG" width="200" /></a>I was taken with Har jewelry the first time I laid eyes on a fantastic brooch of a dragon studded with the most incredible assortment of rhinestones and glass I have ever seen. The unique designs and unusual stones along with the manner in which they are used are the main characteristics of Har jewelry. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXYkVFq11u5WeRf0JHv4u7CG4e09i-sOqjrqacL-aKZYaKSG5kIqRRWb_snQOU-3yho8oOuVm2Z29bAf6fAAPhn0Aq8ZgJLbWhyKzTTL4g3WmcX3Ij8rACIQrnGHtrlLyTwrMyVY7MrQ/s1600/DSCF0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="47" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXYkVFq11u5WeRf0JHv4u7CG4e09i-sOqjrqacL-aKZYaKSG5kIqRRWb_snQOU-3yho8oOuVm2Z29bAf6fAAPhn0Aq8ZgJLbWhyKzTTL4g3WmcX3Ij8rACIQrnGHtrlLyTwrMyVY7MrQ/s200/DSCF0029.JPG" width="150" /></a> The oriental figurals are charming with their smiling faux ivory faces. Their costumes are beautifully detailed, studded with faux gem stones in a wash of gold or sometimes an enamel whitewash. Some are full bodies and some are torsos. <br />
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The brooches and earrings in this line are more common but there are a number of harder to find bracelet designs. <br />
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The feathery shapes in the brooch on the right are referred to, for some reason, as dragon tooth. It is another much sought after design.<br />
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This is only a few examples of the wonderfully magical creations of the Har jewelry company. They were only in business for a short time from the early 1950's to the late 1960's and little is know about the company, the designers or what inspired this fabulous work. <br />
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</span><span style="font-size: large;">To the poet</span><br />
<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" style="font-size: large;">baring</span><span style="font-size: large;"> the soul</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">give it a kick</span><br />
<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" style="font-size: large;">rock</span><span style="font-size: large;"> n roll</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nicky Butler and Simon Wilson began designing jewelry in 1970. They used Austrian crystals, rhinestones and semi precious stones set in gold and silver plated metals. Their work was considered global chic and their clientele was the rich and famous. Parisian designers chose their pieces for accessories to couture clothing. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the 40th</span><span style="font-size: small;"> anniversary of Butler Wilson Jewelry. Their designs are cool. Like these clip earrings in the shape of electric guitars covered with rhinestones.</span></span>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-79648775480261976772010-12-05T15:03:00.000-08:002010-12-05T15:44:45.656-08:00Egyptian RevivalThe Egyptian Revival period probably first began in the late 1700 after Napoleon's campaigns in Egypt and the occupation by the British. The Europeans were taken with ancient Egyptian designs and began using them to adorn any number of items. Egyptian symbols, scarabs, sphinx, Pharaohs, gryphons and the lotus, often with gilding were used in modern forms to create a style referred to as Egyptian Revival.<br />
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The archaeological digs in the 1800's renewed interest in ancient Egyptian culture and the Victorians began using these motifs in jewelry even to the point of using real scarab beetles with gold settings. When King Tut's tomb was discovered in the 1920's, Egyptian design met with Art Deco. In the 1970 the treasures of King Tut came to American and the fascination began again, inspiring jewelry designers to create designs such as these.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Here are some of my favorite Pieces of Egyptian Revival Jewelry. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSL61VaVv3ceuZQaqLiX6hcwsSSsJAIOmLlh7yy5gCFoVOSD2QMqJZ9KPwt-ZXN_vf4pPCDxIMwx0rWhyphenhyphenik8m_atZYwZFFrV4uqKlPyBx83fgkwiPuvKd8Gxj7Bjq6rTLYZNux7ATGDI/s1600/DSCF0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="31" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSL61VaVv3ceuZQaqLiX6hcwsSSsJAIOmLlh7yy5gCFoVOSD2QMqJZ9KPwt-ZXN_vf4pPCDxIMwx0rWhyphenhyphenik8m_atZYwZFFrV4uqKlPyBx83fgkwiPuvKd8Gxj7Bjq6rTLYZNux7ATGDI/s320/DSCF0012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipG75sx_6J5Yo9mNiCaBgyn-AxlGhyphenhyphenXmzGNvuHJDQn0GYL2xFLFc_Nf3Syqgm6mfALBLWmyMyi-JLOMgm2k9VwNjoDzkPCuPoQhG8IS0bpUalIn0ndMNl-17YgCQZKbPohwa9VZ5Rvb5o/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="32" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipG75sx_6J5Yo9mNiCaBgyn-AxlGhyphenhyphenXmzGNvuHJDQn0GYL2xFLFc_Nf3Syqgm6mfALBLWmyMyi-JLOMgm2k9VwNjoDzkPCuPoQhG8IS0bpUalIn0ndMNl-17YgCQZKbPohwa9VZ5Rvb5o/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlziDv7qSiVgoIz9FUn76ySdB57fHthKvzvCFUSlEexZFQ3wwoxKkoKd_UTin6ZhFmpuA249VpIS_yb8KI9h76UXk8SyUqH9T_9fDpERENmc2yRzOrIyHCgOK7ZL_hRjqo3VZnCcZ1B8/s1600/DSCF0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="33" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlziDv7qSiVgoIz9FUn76ySdB57fHthKvzvCFUSlEexZFQ3wwoxKkoKd_UTin6ZhFmpuA249VpIS_yb8KI9h76UXk8SyUqH9T_9fDpERENmc2yRzOrIyHCgOK7ZL_hRjqo3VZnCcZ1B8/s320/DSCF0024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pja4XKcp9pwANZAjqxgQCoxQLfsNM7kUztS_7KiKirws3XsYdjv1Lia6zUVJHTgy1SiUQXuyUqSflWiiqCnv2cxZRrwv3AsmWbjyTc6aV15y7IjDwp_GPy7KFxlC8SfaRlR-KLoqXww/s1600/DSCF0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="34" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pja4XKcp9pwANZAjqxgQCoxQLfsNM7kUztS_7KiKirws3XsYdjv1Lia6zUVJHTgy1SiUQXuyUqSflWiiqCnv2cxZRrwv3AsmWbjyTc6aV15y7IjDwp_GPy7KFxlC8SfaRlR-KLoqXww/s320/DSCF0011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusz5WadIObD1q1KiZVitRCYS3UQM1Xd_reEAf1culNYtvYus_w7ajKWZVdwEriFGz3aZRmHH-qJKFzxfuWGENb9hVb1Hc2Wyfr2Ki-ARxyOPzQMDi1Yfmfd3RO5UcYyYJL99knC6mGqQ/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="37" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusz5WadIObD1q1KiZVitRCYS3UQM1Xd_reEAf1culNYtvYus_w7ajKWZVdwEriFGz3aZRmHH-qJKFzxfuWGENb9hVb1Hc2Wyfr2Ki-ARxyOPzQMDi1Yfmfd3RO5UcYyYJL99knC6mGqQ/s320/DSCF0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQQ2DW1aTDAYkKPLGZ2g-_ivt5gN-bsofU0B3Qnx_5R0x0NQl4C26E8SzHtM0vbfHlGTDkLISUpN3gnZtFoJ3zw8j0UPKXj44zWOfBuYN0sRExP85DNm1zaI1netEbOyPor49VmPg_sE/s1600/DSCF0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="38" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQQ2DW1aTDAYkKPLGZ2g-_ivt5gN-bsofU0B3Qnx_5R0x0NQl4C26E8SzHtM0vbfHlGTDkLISUpN3gnZtFoJ3zw8j0UPKXj44zWOfBuYN0sRExP85DNm1zaI1netEbOyPor49VmPg_sE/s320/DSCF0026.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-55124141514671577702010-12-01T15:52:00.000-08:002010-12-03T07:45:27.554-08:00I Know We Arn't The Only Ones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3TJWpv6Pp8yNN43X8zICGPNsGIO66UuoAVcT64q71YmjO8MHmLicenSMfZYxtuYJockYnAG2S4STNqDv14TzYRX_2lWHE6F9eTqHdnBJVwW3nBmk6budB-IBYgq57jlF6NdJoeitkPE/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" linkindex="17" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3TJWpv6Pp8yNN43X8zICGPNsGIO66UuoAVcT64q71YmjO8MHmLicenSMfZYxtuYJockYnAG2S4STNqDv14TzYRX_2lWHE6F9eTqHdnBJVwW3nBmk6budB-IBYgq57jlF6NdJoeitkPE/s320/DSCF0003.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>A few weeks ago, Jamie and I drove east toward Logan Martin Lake to look at some jewelry. We had a nice visit with the lady selling the jewelry and learned that she bred Ragdoll cats. We looked through her jewelry and selected a number of beautiful art deco era items, a few older pieces of jewelry and some pieces from the 1950's. But wait, we are cat lovers. We have a big old yellow cat named Jake and a big Maine Coon named Zack. So, before heading home, I asked if I could see the cats. There were no little kittens so it seemed safe. We walked up the hill where the cats lived and while she introduced me to her cats one attached herself to Jamie. She literally would not let him go and it was clear to me that he was taken with this little cutie.<br />
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Maggie, the cat, had belonged to a friend of the breeder. She became ill and could no longer look after the cat so the breeder took her back. She's two years old and tiny except for her feet. She's a polydact, a Hemingway cat with six toes. I'm sure you see where this is going. Maggie came home with us that day.<br />
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It proves my point that you never know what you will find on a quest for treasure and it reinforces my love of the hunt for that very reason. I bet we're not the only ones who have gone out looking for something and come back with a new member of the family.Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-78458053007625955092010-11-07T09:55:00.000-08:002010-11-17T06:24:04.968-08:00Watch out for snakes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKJi7m-5k1XXL8xkCWKo5yU-sbPrtEYAdD27bfeNcYcFpciar486YfxazyRENIKoTLdDwO1W8AWFI7cgEqdyZiYnWeiR7NL3pI9IYBVnZysGDKsZKDDoe6OymQz9coUGOE9a-88yOwaw/s1600/DSCF0023.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKJi7m-5k1XXL8xkCWKo5yU-sbPrtEYAdD27bfeNcYcFpciar486YfxazyRENIKoTLdDwO1W8AWFI7cgEqdyZiYnWeiR7NL3pI9IYBVnZysGDKsZKDDoe6OymQz9coUGOE9a-88yOwaw/s320/DSCF0023.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540226698506500594" border="0"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKTvQ4ytKMuwo1HoxOoAGiSekl9IBM-VLHLskOhkbk4Y6R-x8asYYzxzdg2siQlzCLLobZUmg7ogYExYpneIz_vG5-Eg1Yx67EV_s8ts4hSyUT5A-33yMdgMTtt5CRca87RsgFFS-FgU/s1600/DSCF0025.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKTvQ4ytKMuwo1HoxOoAGiSekl9IBM-VLHLskOhkbk4Y6R-x8asYYzxzdg2siQlzCLLobZUmg7ogYExYpneIz_vG5-Eg1Yx67EV_s8ts4hSyUT5A-33yMdgMTtt5CRca87RsgFFS-FgU/s320/DSCF0025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540226691945636514" border="0"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHcmOQldMx72NceW4-QmrpU54iG4Xk0tSMmgTVnszMBAZx6BsuZV-mLRZj-32QyWuYFo4Pnme_aXLBv6zaNJwuD4twRoNas7ONc4O4mtFanAHELtxC4ZKb9WEZcNaGkir41nfjJIV0Uw/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHcmOQldMx72NceW4-QmrpU54iG4Xk0tSMmgTVnszMBAZx6BsuZV-mLRZj-32QyWuYFo4Pnme_aXLBv6zaNJwuD4twRoNas7ONc4O4mtFanAHELtxC4ZKb9WEZcNaGkir41nfjJIV0Uw/s320/DSCF0005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540226680177935298" border="0"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBimhoMEv6a-cWcY5E6PZ-ZGD611UWHfGlgenSLSFj4jC1tOQMvjHnCjKStHE0BH7Cvvni_zGALKqIknzOOzgyVDCMq1CQXvTQFl2B-7Gn0MQb8D7hSr5gcK96HecYgRx4U_ZojqKjLKs/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBimhoMEv6a-cWcY5E6PZ-ZGD611UWHfGlgenSLSFj4jC1tOQMvjHnCjKStHE0BH7Cvvni_zGALKqIknzOOzgyVDCMq1CQXvTQFl2B-7Gn0MQb8D7hSr5gcK96HecYgRx4U_ZojqKjLKs/s320/DSCF0003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540226660626904098" border="0"></a><br /><br />I grew up in the South East where every poisonous snake in North America can be found. As a child every time I went outside to play my mother would remind me, "Watch out for snakes". That must have stuck because now when I search for vintage jewelry I always watch out for snakes.<br /><br />The serpent has always been a popular motif for jewelry probably even before fashion's first icon, Cleopatra. Romans wore bracelets fashioned in the shape of a coiled serpent. In the Middle ages Medieval and Byzantine jewelry used the image of snakes as talisman to ward off evil. It became a popular theme again in Victorian jewelry when Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria an engagement ring that was a snake with an emerald head. This symbol of eternity, rebirth, and healing has never lost popularity. Even though many have a visceral reaction to the snake others are enchanted. I am the latter.<br /><br />I love the way designers and artist find ways to portray snakes in their work.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy these images of some of our favorites.<br /><br /><br />Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138149206605273201.post-26278811234674681362010-10-29T09:02:00.000-07:002010-11-03T09:58:05.479-07:00How We Began<span style="font-family:lucida grande;">We are here to share our love of beautifully designed and crafted vintage jewelry. This is an invitation to join us here for our post where we will share information and photographs about our finds and our little adventures in life.<br /><br />We began exploring the world of jewelry when a friend brought us a box of her mothers costume jewelry to sell on eBay. Many of the pieces were familiar to us because we had seen our mothers wear them when we were growing up. Others were not so familiar. So, following the Number 1 Rule of selling, Know What You Are Selling, we began our research. The Internet made it quick and easy to find information on pieces with signatures, Eisenberg, Har, Trifari, Boucher, Hollycraft, Ciner, Florenza and the like. The more obscure names and unsigned pieces were harder but discovering information about them was much more rewarding. We learned that most of these fabulous pieces were made in the United States and we loved that. We also learned things about our friend's mother who passed away before we met.<br /><br />From there we worked to become Power Sellers and then opened an eBay store. While our experiences were good for the most part we wanted a venue more reflective of the image we wished to project and more reasonable fees for selling. We also wanted to go beyond simply selling, so we could build relationships with our customers. We found those things with Ruby Lane including shop promotion and shop management software at a level that would have been difficult for us to achieve on our own. Now we feel a higher degree of satisfaction and enjoyment in working with people - not only customers but other shop owners as well.<br /><br />Our great appreciation for the sheer beauty of jewelry and the designers and craftsmen who created it kept us pursuing these treasures. Most importantly, we're having fun. Those things</span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"> led</span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"> us to opening our online shop, <a href="http://www.rubylane.com/shop/tropictradingco">Tropic Trading Company</a> on Ruby Lane. This month marks the beginning of our third year on Ruby Lane. It has been a rewarding experience, especially the friends we have been able to make with this selling venue. We have met many interesting people throughout the country, and many more all over the world. We truly learn something new every day. We learn about design, history, fashion, technology, and so much more. We learn about the world from friends in other countries and in other parts of the United States. And, we learn about ourselves.<br /></span>Tropic Trading Companyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14628718614608602148noreply@blogger.com0