When I started to take an interest in vintage jewellery – over 50 years ago – there were very few books on the topic available. When Sibylle Jargstorf’s book ‘Baubles, Buttons and Beads – The Heritage of Bohemia’ was published (Schiffer 1993) I immediately bought a copy. So much information – not only about the metalwork but also about the different sorts of glass stones used – such as saphiret, iris, satin, opalescent and foiled glass. Today I am playing with a box of Czech. brooches – particularly the filigree ones. There is no more room in my shop at Alfies Antiques – so they will have to wait for a space! These filigree brooches were made by craftsmen in Gablonz. These are 20th Century but the tradition goes back much further. The picture shows such a variety of shapes and colours. Of course there were necklaces, buckles, earrings, clips etc. The metals were either gilded or silvered. If any of these beautiful brooches is of interest do email me.
Category: Jewellery Notes
CELLULOID HAT FLASHES/CLOCHE PINS
Celluloid was invented in the 1860s – primarily to replace ivory. It was used extensively for jewellery in the Art Deco period. It was particularly suitable for making these smaller Art Deco hat pins. The majority were black and diamante but other colours were used. In present time people wear them anywhere – particularly in hats and berets of course, but they also look good on a jacket lapel etc. I always sell them with a hat pin end to prevent loss. They look great with a Deco outfit and are a low budget item that will really make a statement.