Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Vintage Christine's Vintage Jewelry


Once upon a time in the land of Hollywood there lived a man named McClelland Barclay.  He was a famous graphic artist in the 30's and 40's and designed some of the era's most elegant costume jewelry.  Here is an interesting in-depth article on this most fascinating man.


One day at the flea market I was given the chance to sort through a huge box of costume jewelry by a vendor I'd gotten to know.  So well, in fact, that they would chase me down at the market, offering me a chair and a bottle of ice water so I'd be comfy whilst exclaiming "ooo" and "ahhhh" at their pretties.  When I came across this fur clip, I knew I'd found something special.  I put on my reading glasses in order to see more clearly--there's a bit of wear on the finish but nothing major, and the jewels are SO beautiful!



McClelland Barclay jewelry has a very distinctive signature and should not be confused with jewelry by "Barclay", which is nice but definitely NOT McClelland Barclay.



This pin was found in a dirty display case at my favorite junk store run by Miss Kathy.  It was missing a pearl and I had it replaced with the large citrine stone.  It is breathtaking under a bright light!



A crystal clear rhinestone pin whose shape reminds me of symbols you see in New Mexico.



An Austrian-made Christmas tree pin signed "Husar".  The different stones make it truly spectacular--I especially love the blue & green speckled pair.



Last but not least, two sweet little pins that belonged to Mom.  I've had these for years and bring them out every Christmas as part of a display.   They're certainly vintage and a warm reminder of our mother, Marian. 

I should be trying to sell more of my rather enormous collection of vintage costume jewelry, but I can't--I have a few pieces in my Etsy store and am trying really really hard to put more up.  It's just that whenever I take it out, I can't bring myself to part with it.  Help!  I'm a C.J. Junkie!!

8 comments:

  1. I wouldn't sell them. Instead, get out your chunky pearl necklace and hang the "pendant of the day" over the strand. Wear a different one every day. If it's a dressy event, pull out your rhinestone necklace, hook the pin to the clasp and get out there and blind folks with their beauty! I suppose you could always pin it to your sweater but I say, why do the expected when it's so easy to go OVER THE TOP!
    Anna

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  2. Oh,love your blog. The jewelry is so beautiful, I too can't part with mine.

    Is Magpie Ethel neat or what?

    I live in South Georgia but my Grandparents who are in their late 80's are Cajuns in South Louisiana. I am going to visit them in a few days and hope to hit some thrift shops. I would love to find some ole' Christmas treasures.
    I'll be back to visit.
    Merry Christmas,
    Stephanie

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  3. Wow I love these!

    Hey sweetie, I am sorry I have not joined your blog before. I'm sure I tried, or it wasn't visible to me? Sometimes blogger seems to glitch, or maybe I am glitching lol who knows, but it's about darned time! I love it!

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  4. One of my favorite things about 'stuff' is learning something new everyday! ...the history, the background, the designers. I too am a CJ Junkie to the max, and I wear mine on a daily basis, do research intently, but in all my years have never come across a 'McClelland Barclay' , 'Barclay'-Yes, but never 'McClelland Barclay'. THANKS for a new 'eye-opener' - and they are Stunning!!

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  5. These are gorgeous! I didn't know anything about him. Thanks so much for visiting and your sweet comments on my post honey. As usual, you have a fantastic story to add so much to my post. I always appreciate you visiting. Have a great night dear! Kori xoxo

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  6. the clear rhinestone one is my fav...i love visiting you blog.

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  7. Love love love your shiny jewelry!
    And the story of you ooohing and aaahing after being chased down at the market! Reminds me of someone....ME!
    xoxo
    Pam

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  8. I have a santa pin that belonged to my mother (which I posted at my blog a while back), but I do wonder what happened to the tree pins.

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