Billie Girls

Annie staring at Caroline's Vintage Jewelery Window

When I visit Caroline I am on the quest for pieces of jewellery that either have inspirational stories, coming from a fascinating period in history or that are just simply distinct and unique.

I have always had a passion for vintage jewellery and have never favored one period over another. However, my taste always changes and evolves with time and just like in fashion I have noticed that my taste tends to follow the current trends.

At the moment, I am a particularly drawn to the Art Deco period. There is certainly something to be said about the exceptional aesthetics of the Cubists, the Futurists and the Russian Constructivists. There is something about the purity of form in the architectural and geometric lines that I am attracted to. I also like the innovative use of materials and the variety of techniques they used to make their jewellery accessible.

White gold was replaced with platinum and less expensive stones like amethyst, topaz and citrine were used by jewellery crafters so that their jewellery could be admired from further away. It is also during this period that materials like silver, nickel, stainless steel, palladium and enamel became popular choices for artisans.
Today, the term Art Deco is generally used to describe a period in time that took place between two wars.The term was coined during the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts in 1925.

I have to say that when Caroline shows me these crafted jewels that date from so long ago I am moved by the delicate balance of different materials. Cigarette cases, powder compacts and pendants made with a mixture of brushed and polished surfaces, sapphires mixed with emeralds and gold combined with silvers. In Art Deco, it is the opposites and differences between materials and textures that seem to inspire the designer. This concept reminds me that this was a time in history where women had begun their fight for emancipation and in the very same way were searching for a balance of their own as a woman in a male dominated society.

It seems that just like me, Caroline is equally fond of this period. I can see by her eyes that she shares the same understanding and appreciation that I have found in the Art Deco period. She watches me discover these precious pieces of history and I am so immersed that I lose track of time and the counter is overflowing with these magnificent discoveries.

Three Art Deco necklaces, one jade and silver bracelet, one turtle shell shaped broche and a handful of earrings later I had surpassed my budget and now had to make a choice. Although most of Caroline’s customers have the tendency of spending a fortune here, I need to at least come close to my initial budget.

With so little self-control over my spending, you surely understand why I must limit myself from visiting my very favorite antiquarian. If ever you find yourself searching for the perfect gift for my birthday, you now know where to go. But, I am warning you, that this particular antique jewellery boutique has a special charm and it is rather easy to get addicted to shopping there.

SPECIAL THANKS:

Antiquités Caroline
5601 Parc Avenue Montréal
514.272.6200

Pierre-Luc Dufour
Photographer
514-943-3710
www.pierrelucdufour.com

Amélie Bruneau Longpré
Makeup Artist
514-606-3326
www.amelieblongpre.blogspot.com

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