What is Estate Jewelry?

Many people see estate jewelry as a simple substitution for “Used” Jewelry. But it is truly a much greater adventure! It is not just the “never worn might as well sell” accessories, but ranges to the historic artistry of rare Art Deco designs to the fine antiquities like a 19th century Diamond Necklace. Time brings jewelry a new public image and an enhanced interpretation of its style. A 14K Gold ring would be a respectable item when purchased today. But a 14K Gold Ring circa 1930? Embodied with the period’s artistic and social influences, accentuated with a Sardonyx Signet Crest……. That same ring now accompanies the historical and unique qualities of every valuable vintage piece! Each designing era brings its own creative arc to our modern style. Estate jewelry can be of any age, but it’s specific dating format can be perceived as two discernable categories:

Antique

Vintage

Antique jewelry refers to jewelry that is at least 100 years old and belongs to a historic period.
Antique Jewelry is considered to hold historical value, and displays stories and cultures from their time period.

Examples include Victorian and Edwardian period items, especially Rings, are currently considered to be Antique Jewelry items.

Vintage jewelry refers to jewelry ranging from older than 20 years but to a period which has elapsed less than 100 years ago.
Vintage Jewelry items are currently including the created pieces of the 1900’s, specifically jewelry made from 1920-1960.
Artistic Periods included are Art Deco [1920-1940], Retro [1940-1950], and The Mid-Century period [1950-1960]
Anything made after the 1960’s is considered to be a modern estate piece.

No matter the style or brand, Estate Jewelry has a rich value through both historical and cultural connections that provide a unique diversified style no modern jeweler can match!

27th Oct 2020 Ryan Flaherty