Recently Sold (VBR281)

Giardinetti - Vintage Signed 'Jay Kel' Sterling Silver Austrian Swarovski Crystal Rhinestone Flower Brooch. This lovely brooch is crafted from sterling silver, hallmarked Jay Key, sterling. The brooch features round cut and marquise cut Swarovski aurora borealis crystal rhinestones, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This gorgeous brooch is made in the form of flowers, which is adorned with sparkling coloured rhinestones. The stems of the flowers have a polished shiny finish, and lovely detail. The back of the brooch is polished, and features its original pin and a secure rotating lock, which is in perfect working order. This eye-catching vintage brooch would make a perfect addition to any vintage jewelry collection.

Jay Kel Costume Jewelry company was a major player in the Canadian costume jewelry market, particularly in the mid 20th century. It was a franchise owned by a wholesaler from New York, with Hy Mendelson buying the Canadian franchise to manufacture Jay Kel and Jay Flex jewelry in Canada. 

The term Rhinestone was given to the little sparkles after the river Rhine, where quartz pebbles, rock crystals with a high lead content were originally found. Folk would collect them from the shores, jewellers cutting and moulding them into little imitation diamonds.

In 1883, Daniel formed a jewelry company and by 1886, they had over 70 employees, and supplied jewelry for Queen Victoria. In 1891, Daniel registered a patent for the crystal cutting machine that he created and in 1895, moved from Bohemia to Wattens, Austria to begin crystal production.

What Is Gold-plated Jewelry? Gold-plated jewelry is a type of metal jewelry covered with a very thin layer of real gold. The process was invented in 1805 by Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli who plated a very thin gold layer on top of silver. 

The origins of Giardinetti jewelry can be traced back to the 17th century when jewellery makers began incorporating naturalistic themes into their designs. At the time, there was a growing interest in science and botany, and this was reflected in the jewellery of the period. Giardinetti pieces were created as a way to incorporate natural elements, such as flowers and foliage, into wearable pieces of art.

The design of Giardinetti rings typically features a central gemstone, surrounded by a wreath of smaller gems. The wreath is often designed to look like a garden, with flowers, leaves, and other natural elements. The gemstones used in Giardinetti jewelry were typically diamonds, but other gemstones such as emeralds, rubies, sapphires and paste gems were also used.

The meaning behind Giardinetti jewelry  is closely tied to their design. The floral elements of the rings are meant to symbolise the beauty and fragility of life. The central gemstone is meant to represent the wearer, while the surrounding flowers and foliage symbolise the people and experiences that surround them.

Giardinetti jewelry were especially popular in the 18th and 19th centuries when they were often given as tokens of love and affection. They were also used as engagement rings, with the central gemstone representing the betrothed couple, and the surrounding flowers symbolising the love that surrounded them. In the 19th century, Giardinetti rings were often used as mourning jewellery. The flowers and foliage on the rings were designed to represent the cycle of life and death, and the gemstones were often black or dark in colour, to capture the sorrow of loss. One of the most famous examples of a Giardinetti ring is the Marie Antoinette Diamond and Pearl Ring. This ring, made in the 18th century, features a central diamond surrounded by a wreath of natural pearls. The floral design of the ring is meant to symbolise the beauty and delicacy of the queen, and the natural pearls represent her purity and innocence.

Today, antique Giardinetti jewelry are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Their intricate designs and beautiful gemstones make them a valuable addition to any jewellery collection. They are also a wonderful way to connect with the past and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of earlier generations. Giardinetti rings continue to be a source of inspiration for jewellery designers today. Many modern jewellery makers are creating their own versions of Giardinetti jewelry, using contemporary materials and techniques. These new designs are a testament to the enduring beauty and meaning of these unique and beautiful pieces In conclusion, antique Giardinetti pieces are a beautiful and meaningful style of ring that has been popular for centuries. Their floral designs and gemstone accents make them a true work of art, and their meaning make them a valuable piece of jewellery history. Whether you are a collector, enthusiast, or just a lover of beautiful jewellery, a Giardinetti piece is a wonderful and rare addition to any collection.

Measurements: Brooch 70.00 mm x 59.00 mm 

Stone Size: Swarovski Crystal Rhinestones:  Variety of sizes 

Weight: 26.60 grams 

Condition: Excellent  Note: Pristine, amazing condition, looks as though it has never been worn. 

Origin: Canada 

Date: Circa 1950