At an antique store, time can seem to stand still as we are surrounded by objects that contain much historical significance and many past remembrances. Learning on Thursday that our last WWI veteran had passed away, we here at Toronto Antiques on King & The Cynthia Findlay Collection were unsure how to best give homage to not only the deceased, John Babcock, but to all those who fought in this world-changing conflict. As Canadians, we truly came together as a nation during the Great War, as it was known. This is where our iconic maple leaf emblem was first associated with our country and who better to carry that emblem than our servicemen, who fought to change the course of history.
John Babcock passed away at the age of 109 on Thursday. John had been eager to serve, attempting to join the army at ages 15 (deemed too young) and again at 16. He made it as far as Halifax before his age was discovered for a second time, and he was sent to join the Battalion of Young Soldiers (1917). He eventually joined the 26th reserve in England. He never saw active service, but his keen desire to help his country and fellow soldiers is evident in the extreme measures he took to enlist at so young an age.
Sweetheart pillows, like the Canadian example above, were purchased by soldiers when they reached their military camp and were sent home to mothers or loved ones left behind. John Babcock might have witnessed this tradition during his service in Halifax and England. This particular pillow reads:
“Sweetheart
I thought that you would
like to know
That someone’s thoughts go
where you go;
And now my constant prayer
will be
That God may keep you
safe for me.
SUSSEX N.B.”
Aquamarine, Diamond and Pearl Necklace
(The stunning aquamarine, diamond and pearl necklace seen above, set in platinum, has one bezel-set oval faceted aquamarine weighing 19.72ct! This exceptional piece is available at Cynthia Findlay Antiques (416) 260-9057)
It is hard to believe that it’s March already! This Toronto winter has not been quite as tough as in recent years, but March always leaves a restless feeling in the air, and this year is no different. March is the month when Canadian families flee to warmer weather in droves, as the crystal clear waters and warm sunshine of the tropics beckon.
It is appropriate, then, that the birthstone for March is Aquamarine, a blue-green stone that is rich in tone and sparkles like the Caribbean Sea. Worn as a sign of affection, love, hope and health, aquamarine has also been thought to protect its wearers while at sea.
Aquamarine is a blue variety of beryl. The biggest aquamarine ever found was mined in Brazil in 1910 weighing over 110 kg, and measuring 42 cm in diameter.
A beautiful stone that can be dressed up or down (who ever said you can’t wear a beautiful cocktail ring with jeans – especially when its turquoise in colour?!), aquamarine pendants, earrings and rings make a wonderful gift for the special March baby in your life (or for anyone who looks good in blue, and that’s just about everyone!).
Come into the store at 284 King Street West to browse our spectacular collection of aquamarine jewellery today. Currently our online selection for sale includes… www.cynthiafindlay.com/aquamarine