antique modern

Ugh, there are no words to describe how much I love this Art Nouveau ring!  Somehow this ring encompasses just as much of a modern sensibility as it does the beautiful qualities of an antique piece!

Barnes ignited collection

A few weeks ago, my coworkers and I visited the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia.  I don't think I could love a museum more!  I won't go into too much detail and history about the museum (you can get all that information here), but beyond the stunning works of art, I was captivated by the way all of the art was curated and displayed along with metal objects, like skeleton keys, hinges, and escutcheons (a decorative plate to cover a functioning item).  I have always loved skeleton keys but this trip has ignited a desire to start an antique escutcheon collection along with my keys to display as wall decor!  Here are some beautiful ones I have found on ebay...

A Victorian brass escutcheon salvaged from a remodeling project. A small piece at only 1 1/2" high but with beautiful ornate detail!

A beautiful, rare Victorian keyhole cover with swing plate!

An Art Deco plate with a beautiful aged patina!

THE one

I found it!  THE one!  After a long search for just THE right locket, this is the one I purchased... an Edwardian gold fill locket.  I am so excited about the repousse on the front of this locket and the hint of a floral design.  (Thank you MiladyLinden for being an accommodating etsy seller!)

locked doors

Happy belated Mother's Day to all the mommies out there!  I had a wonderful day with my husband and daughter, and received an etsy gift card as a little treat, which can be equally dangerous!  While feverishly searching for just the right Art Nouveau locket I stumbled across this beautiful Victorian era piece.  I love the shutter doors and the shield shape.  It isn't exactly what I was looking for but very tempting!

gemstone cuffs

I have been seeing a lot of gemstone cuff styles out there, using different shaped stones, different gemstones, and even mixing gemstones with metal details, and I love them all!  My favorite of all being these styles from Jemma Wynne!