Joya by Myrurgia c1924

The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a time of significant cultural and social change, marked by economic prosperity and a move towards modernity in art, fashion, and lifestyle. This era saw a fascination with luxury and opulence, partly as a reaction to the austerity of World War I. Jewelry, or "joyas" in Spanish, became symbols of wealth, glamour, and the liberated spirit of the time. The period was also notable for its burgeoning film industry, with silent films often showcasing themes of romance, wealth, and exoticism, which complemented the allure of luxurious items like fine perfumes and jewels.

Myrurgia's choice of the name "Joya" for their perfume in 1924 taps into these cultural currents. The word "Joya" means "jewel" in Spanish, and it evokes images of elegance, beauty, and rarity. These connotations are perfectly suited to a luxury perfume, designed to be a precious and cherished item. Naming the perfume "Joya" aligns it with the opulence and sophistication associated with high-quality jewelry, suggesting that the fragrance is as valuable and exquisite as a fine jewel.

During this transitional period into the Art Deco era, the design and fashion trends were greatly influenced by the lavishness and geometric elegance characteristic of Art Deco design. Popular gemstones included diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, onyx, pearls, and amethyst, each prized for its beauty and rarity. These stones often featured in intricate designs that highlighted the clean lines and sharp angles of the Art Deco style. Precious metals such as platinum, white gold, and to a lesser extent, yellow gold, were used to create settings that enhanced the brilliance of these gemstones. Platinum, in particular, was favored for its strength and neutral color, making it ideal for the detailed and symmetrical designs of the period.

For women of the 1920s, a perfume named "Joya" would resonate deeply. The decade was one of emancipation and empowerment, with women breaking free from traditional roles and exploring new freedoms, including in their fashion and lifestyle choices. A perfume called "Joya" would appeal to their desire for luxury and self-expression, embodying the new sense of identity and sophistication they were cultivating. The name would suggest that wearing the perfume was akin to adorning oneself with a beautiful piece of jewelry, enhancing their allure and elegance.

Acclaim by Ciro c1950

Acclaim by Ciro: launched in 1950.

Chunga by Weil c1977

Chunga by Weil: launched in 1977.

Jin Abe by Jin Abe c1998

Jin Abe by Jin Abe: launched in 1998.

Helietta Caracciolo by Caracciolo c1981

Helietta Caracciolo by Caracciolo: launched in 1981. Caracciolo was an Italian designer of fine and fashion jewelry based in Rome.

Orgia by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, when Myrurgia launched their perfume "Orgia," Spain was experiencing a vibrant cultural period known as the "Silver Age." This era was characterized by a blossoming of arts, literature, and cinema, marked by a fascination with sensuality, passion, and romanticism. Films of the time often explored themes of love, desire, and the allure of the exotic, resonating with the flamboyant and expressive nature of the period.

The choice of the name "Orgia" by Myrurgia seems deliberate and reflective of the cultural milieu. In Spanish, "Orgia," pronounced "or-hee-ah," traditionally refers to a lavish celebration or revelry, often associated with excess and indulgence. However, its connotation can also suggest a profusion of beauty and sensory delights, aligning perfectly with the perfume's purported essence of "many flowers, many lights, many loves."

For women of the 1920s, a perfume named "Orgia" would likely evoke images of passion, romance, and an exotic allure. In a time when societal norms were loosening and women were increasingly asserting their independence, a fragrance promising such extravagance and allure would likely resonate deeply.

Parfumerie Delia

Parfums Delia of Paris, France.

Modern Perfumery Magazine, 1919

Vintage Shampoo - Yucca Dew

"ooh oooh yucca dew "

The all natural Yucca-Dew Shampoo was made by Alberto-Culver in 1972. It was very distinctive at the time for what it contained, it had the oils from the yucca plant to enrich your hair, leaving it soft, glossy and manageable. Yucca roots when pounded, produce a soapy lather suitable for shampoo. This fact has been known to certain Native Americans in the southwestern United States and Mexicans for centuries and the plant is often called soapweed or soap plant.

La Rose by Rochas c1949

In 1949, the launch of "La Rose" by Rochas occurred amidst a post-war period marked by a resurgence of optimism and elegance. Marcel Rochas, the founder, likely chose the name "La Rose" for its timeless and universally beloved connotations. "La Rose," translating to "The Rose" in English, is a name steeped in symbolic richness. Roses have long been revered in perfumery for their delicate yet powerful fragrance, evoking notions of romance, femininity, and natural beauty. This flower's association with perfumery stretches back centuries, celebrated for its complex scent profile that ranges from fresh and dewy to richly floral and intoxicating.

The name "La Rose" would resonate deeply with individuals appreciative of classic elegance and refined tastes. For them, encountering this perfume would evoke images of lush rose gardens in bloom, enveloping them in a sensory experience reminiscent of springtime and passionate romance. The word itself conjures feelings of tenderness, sophistication, and a timeless allure, appealing to those who value tradition and grace.

Vintage Boudoirs of the Stars - Part 4

Joan Evans, c1940s-1950s, various perfumes and powder boxes on her vanity.

 Joan Fontaine, c1930s-1940s, various perfumes and goodies on her vanity.

Joan Fontaine, c1940s, various perfumes on her vanity.

Joan Crawford, c1940s, gorgeous mirror front vanity table, some treasures on the table.

Judith Barrett, c1940, various crystal bottles and an atomizer on her vanity

June Collyer, c1920s, Apollo Studios pierced brass perfume atomizer on her vanity.