{Paste Dreams}

Paste is a term for leaded glass that were cut to resemble gemstones. I have read that it was more difficult to cut paste than a diamond! It took a great amount of skill and these early 19th century pieces are wonderful examples of the quality.

During their peak of popularity (1700's-1800's) paste jewels were very desirable. Due to the wide variety of cuts they could be set in jewelry that diamonds could not be. The leaded glass gives the stones a brilliant glow that you can only find in old paste. Some paste stones were foiled and there are rare pieces that were tinted to various colors.

 Paste differs from rhinestones in that it is leaded glass and is not machine cut. If you look closely at each stone you can see the hand crafted characteristics.

{Reverse Painted Loveliness}

I've been hoarding these beauties for a while now. Before I add them to the shop I wanted to share them with you! I have heard these referred to as "goofus glass" or "paperweight jewelry". I call them Reverse Painted Intaglios.

These pieces vary in age and quality. The older ones are carved from glass or rock crystal, painted from the back and sealed with a mother of pearl coating. The newer ones (when I say "newer" I mean the 1930's!) are often backed with metallic paper. By the end of World War II glass was replaced by lucite.The examples in my photographs range from 1890-1915. The oldest piece in this collection is the small basket of flowers pin at the bottom. I love the oval shaped pendant that is set in sterling! Most of these will be drifting into the shop soon!!!

{Independence Day}

Happy Independence Day!

In honor of this joyous holiday, I am offering a special discount in the shop! You can enjoy fifteen percent off your order by using the coupon code FIFTEEN upon checkout! I hope everyone's day is filled with happiness, sparklers, good food and surrounded by the ones they love. 

Happy Fourth of July!!!

My youngest, Estelle - she is also my Inventory Manager in the shop and model of Victorian  Jewelry for children!

Abraham Lincoln flag with stars spelling out the word "Free," signed by Abraham Lincoln and dated July 5, 1864, at Jeff R. Bridgman American Antiques in York, Pa.