Monthly Archives: October 2007

Chinese Jade Devil’s Work Necklace

By Susan October 29, 2007
Chinese Jade Devil's Work NecklaceThis dramatic necklace is an example of the art form of carving and piercing jade that Chinese often refer to as ‘the devil’s work’. The necklace is composed of five nephrite jade carvings connected by a series of balls and circular links covered with 1mm glass beads. The four identical carvings are called ‘flower baskets’. For each [...]
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Chinese Silver Tourmaline Bracelet

By Susan October 19, 2007
Chinese Silver Tourmaline BraceletOne of the joys of collecting jewelry from the other side of the globe is the difference in style and techniques. The second pleasure for me is coming across stones not usually seen in our North American pieces. This bracelet, c1910, has at center a 19c tourmaline carving of two fat birds sitting on a branch [...]
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Chinese Chicken Bone Jade Necklace

By Susan October 10, 2007
Chinese Chicken Bone Jade NecklaceSeveral sources state that Nephrite Jade which has been through a fire or buried for a long time will develop an unusual surface calcification, losing color and becoming a chalky white…like these beads. According to the Collector’s Book of Jade, by Arthur and Grace Chu, this jade, which is called ‘chicken bone’, is highly valued by [...]
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Chinese Carved Silver Four Ling Bracelet

By Susan October 1, 2007
Chinese Carved Silver Four Ling BraceletWhen I look at the bracelet I hear my art history professor in my head… "classic design…balance…great proportions and execution". The size and weight (54 grams) suggest to me that is was made for a man rather than a woman. This is a 19th century silver bracelet…carved with rich symbolism that depicts thousands of years of [...]
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