Antiques and Collectibles

purbeckgazette.co.uk Fancy a cocktail?

THE cocktail ring was originally designed during Prohibition in the 1920’s when women were becoming more independent, having been given the vote, and who were invited to attend illicit parties where alcohol was drunk a-plenty.

A cocktail ring made a statement and the bigger and brighter, the better!

After the end of the war in the 1950s ,cocktail parties became popular again and so there was resurgence in this type of jewellery which was colourful and a real antidote to the austerity of rationing and lack of availability of gemstones. Popular designers included Butler & Wilson, and affordable costume jewellery made dressing up accessible.

By the 1960s and 1970s, when the fashion world exploded, the focus was on social change with women buying for themselves. Jewellery was worn for the joy of it, not just as a statement of wealth or having been given it to signify an anniversary,

Pieces by Andrew Grima, affectionately known as the father of modern jewellery and who designed pieces for the Royal Family and London society, were big and bold and coveted. Some are even displayed in the Victoria & Albert Museum. Likewise, Charles de Temple was a pioneer of the Modern Jewellery Movement and was known for his unique designs and technical ability to handcraft gold.

The gorgeous 18ct gold Lapis Lazuli & Turquoise semi precious stone ring you can see is known as a ‘bombe’ ring. This means there is usually a large stone in the middle in a rounded, curved design. Its creator is Alan Martin Gard whose signature pieces use texture and gemstones, taking inspiration from nature and organic contemporary design. His jewellery is much sought after, making them quite valuable. This ring is hallmarked for 1972.

AMY BRENAN Director of Heirlooms

Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham

Visit us this Christmas for the perfect antique, pre-owned or modern jewellery gift

Christmas Opening Hours Tues-Fri 9:30am-5:00pm Saturdays 9:30am-2:00pm

Fri 23rd Dec 9:30am-7:00pm Christmas Eve 9:30am-2:00pm Tues 3rd Jan 9:30am-5:00pm

21 South Street. Wareham. BH20 4LR 01929 554207 WWW.HEIRLOOMSJEWELLERY.CO.UK

Antiques & Collectibles

At last it’s Christmas

IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas here at @sixtyone.

The shop is now ready for the festive season and to celebrate we have reduced the price of several items.

So if you are looking for gift inspiration or just fancy treating yourself to something special or unique, there are plenty of bargains to be had.

And don’t forget you can also shop on our website if it is difficult to visit in person.

Our sale is now on. Pop in to pick up some fabulous gifts or if you are entertaining this festive season you may be looking for additional seating or table space.

@sixtyone

Quirky shop Homeware • Giftware

61 High St, Swanage, BH19 2LY opposite Love Cake

sixtyonehighstreet.co.uk