The combination of Jim Shore artistry and the December birthstone, blue topaz, represents a contemporary intersection of tradition and collectible design. While the provided sources do not offer a comprehensive gemological history of blue topaz, they illuminate its role as a birthstone accent within a specific artistic context – the Flower of the Month and Monthly Angel figurine collections. This article will explore the presence of blue topaz in these collections, the broader symbolism of angels in decorative arts, and the significance of December birthstone traditions as reflected in these pieces.
The Allure of the December Birthstone
Blue topaz is prominently featured as a birthstone accent in Jim Shore’s December Flower of the Month collection, specifically paired with a Narcissus bloom. This association links the gemstone to those born in December, offering a tangible representation of their birth month. The sources do not detail the historical origins of blue topaz as a December birthstone, but its inclusion in these contemporary designs reinforces its modern acceptance within birthstone lore. The use of a birthstone accent suggests a desire to personalize and imbue the artwork with deeper meaning, connecting it to the individual recipient or collector.
Jim Shore and the Art of Collectible Figurines
Jim Shore’s work is characterized by intricate detail and a distinctive aesthetic that blends folk art, Americana, and religious iconography. His pieces, often crafted from resin to resemble hand-carved wood, frequently feature cracks and textures intentionally incorporated into the design to enhance the rustic, artisanal feel. This deliberate aesthetic choice, as noted by QVC, is a key element of Shore’s style and should be recognized as part of the artwork’s overall character.
The figurines themselves, whether part of the Flower of the Month series or the Foundations Monthly Angel collection, are designed as collectible items. The Enesco Foundations collection, featuring Karen Hahn’s artistry, specifically aims to convey “uplifting words of hope and wisdom,” connecting the figurines to themes of family, faith, and home. This emphasis on inspirational messaging adds another layer of significance to the pieces, transforming them from mere decorative objects into symbols of personal values.
Angels as Symbols of Faith and Hope
The presence of angel figurines, particularly within the Christmas Around the World collection, highlights the enduring symbolism of angels in art and culture. Angels are often depicted as messengers of hope, faith, and divine guidance. The vintage Christmas Around the World angel, described as having hinged, moving wings, embodies this symbolism through its dynamic design. The angel’s embrace of the dove of faith further reinforces this message of peace and spiritual connection.
The angel’s original tag and pristine, unused condition suggest its value as a collectible item, preserved for its aesthetic and symbolic qualities. The description emphasizes its “fabulous” and “rare” nature, appealing to collectors seeking unique and meaningful pieces.
The Foundations Collection and Monthly Angels
The Enesco Foundations Monthly Angel figurines represent a more focused approach to birthstone symbolism. Each angel is associated with a specific month and features a corresponding gemstone accent. The May angel, for example, is adorned with an emerald crystal. This consistent application of birthstones across the collection establishes a clear connection between the figurines and the traditional birthstone calendar. The accompanying message – “Every year is a new beginning…every day, a gift” – adds a layer of inspirational meaning, aligning the angel with themes of renewal and gratitude.
Retail and Accessibility
The sources indicate that these collectibles are available through various retail channels, including online marketplaces like Shopify and QVC, as well as brick-and-mortar stores like The Gift Shop in Oulton Broad. The Gift Shop emphasizes its commitment to providing a diverse selection of gifts for all occasions, highlighting its role as a one-stop-shop for customers seeking quality products. The availability of both online ordering and click-and-collect options demonstrates a commitment to customer convenience. The shop also offers a sourcing service for items not currently in stock, further enhancing its customer service.
Blue Topaz: Limited Gemological Information
The provided sources offer limited gemological information about blue topaz. They do not detail its chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or mining locations. However, the consistent use of blue topaz as a birthstone accent suggests its aesthetic appeal and its acceptance within contemporary birthstone traditions. Further research beyond these sources would be necessary to provide a comprehensive gemological profile of blue topaz.
Cracks and Imperfections as Design Elements
A notable point highlighted by QVC is the intentional inclusion of cracks in Jim Shore’s pieces. These cracks are not defects but rather integral parts of the design, intended to mimic the look and feel of hand-carved wood. This detail is crucial for understanding the aesthetic intent behind Shore’s work and appreciating the artistry involved in creating these collectibles.
The Gift-Giving Tradition
The sources implicitly emphasize the role of these items as gifts. The descriptions highlight their suitability for various occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, and Christmas. The emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and inspirational messaging suggests that these collectibles are intended to be cherished and passed down as meaningful heirlooms. The Traditional Gift Shop’s commitment to providing a personal touch and assisting customers with their gift-giving needs further reinforces this aspect.
Table: Birthstone Angels and Corresponding Months (Based on Available Data)
| Month | Angel Feature | Gemstone Accent |
|---|---|---|
| May | May Birthday Angel | Emerald Crystal |
| December | December Flower of the Month | Blue Topaz |
Conclusion
The provided sources, while limited in scope, reveal a fascinating intersection of artistry, birthstone tradition, and symbolic meaning. Jim Shore’s collectible figurines, particularly those featuring blue topaz as a December birthstone accent, represent a contemporary interpretation of classic themes. The emphasis on hope, faith, and family, combined with the distinctive aesthetic of Shore’s work, creates pieces that are both visually appealing and emotionally resonant. While a comprehensive gemological analysis of blue topaz is beyond the scope of these sources, their focus on its role as a birthstone accent underscores its enduring appeal and its place within modern birthstone lore. The figurines serve as tangible reminders of the values they represent, making them cherished gifts and meaningful additions to any collection.