Vintage jewelry can be unique and eye-catching or timeless and classic. Vintage refers to anything that was made more than about fifty years ago, and there are some amazing pieces available. You’ll want to include a few pieces in your own jewelry box, including the following five: (Image Credit: PonyUp/ Pixabay)
1. Art Deco Pieces
Art Deco is a classic style among vintage jewellery. Emerging around 1925, this style came about after French jewelry exhibits gained popularity at the World’s Fair. It’s a very distinctive style known for its gaudy, stunning appeal.
Most pieces were made using platinum or white gold rather than traditional yellow gold. Blue colored stones and diamonds were the most popularly used gemstones of the time, and they were usually cut in the antique cushion cut, transitional cut, or Asscher cut. Calibre cut stones are also common in Art Deco pieces.
It’s not uncommon to see floral and geometric designs in art deco pieces as well. Typically, pieces will include filigree work, which is small and intricate, often done by hand.
Make sure you’re getting authentic Art Deco pieces. There are reproductions that are not as sharp and detailed as true vintage products, and you’ll be able to tell the difference.
2. Edwardian Era Jewelry
The Edwardian Era directly preceded the Art Deco period for jewellery, ranging between around 1900 and the early 1920s. During this time, jewelry was fashioned after the stylings of Cartier and Boucheron. It’s characterized by graceful, lacy, and elegant designs.
Jewelers used filigree cutouts and threads of precious metals to decorate the surface of their settings, giving it a lace-like look that complemented the women’s period clothing. Typically, white gold and platinum were used with a variety of gems including diamonds, pearls, and aquamarine.
Although it’s been more than a century since this jewelry was designed, Edwardian-style and Art Deco jewelry are a huge part of modern jewelry styles. Real, vintage pieces are considered very valuable today. To see gorgeous examples of both Art Deco and Edwardian rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and more, check out this authentic collection of vintage jewelry.
3. Cocktail Rings
The cocktail ring is an iconic vintage piece. This gorgeous ring style was wildly popular during the 1920s to 1950s as an extra accessory for evenings out. Cocktail parties were prevalent during this time, and oversized rings were all the rage for women attendees.
Typically, cocktail rings were designed with affordability in mind. Rather than high-carat gold and diamonds, you’d find imitation diamonds or less valuable gemstones set into platinum, sterling silver, or low-carat gold.
Cocktail rings are a fun piece to include in your jewelry box because they let you show off your personality and make a statement when out with friends. Because these rings are designed to attract attention, the flashier they are, the better.
4. Statement Necklace
Nothing makes a statement like a vintage necklace. Edwardian and Art Deco Era necklaces are designed to attract attention on the wearer’s neck. The large, costume-like appearance helps to elongate the neck.
Vintage necklaces come in any metal or gemstone, but diamonds, lapis lazuli, aquamarine, and emerald stones were common during that time. Usually, the chain is made from white gold, sterling silver, or another silver-colored alloy.
The gemstones are usually put into a setting of filigree and lace overlay to make them intricate and visually stunning. Altogether, the effect is both eye-catching and breathtaking.
5. Birthstone Piece
Birthstones are classic gems in vintage pieces. They represent the month in which you were born. Each has a unique significance. Like horoscopes, birthstones are a way to set apart those who were born at certain times of the year.
It’s generally believed that birthstones first emerged in jewelry in the 5th century. Christian scholars say they represent the twelve gems found in the breastplate of Aaron in the Bible. It is known that God Himself places every treasure and gemstones on earth.
Now you know the true value and have spiritual knowledge of wearing your birthstone, it’s still a precious piece to have in your jewelry box, whether it’s set in a ring, bracelet, necklace, or earrings.
There’s some dispute about which birthstone is aligned with which month, but it’s generally believed that birthstones are assigned as follows:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Pearl
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Citrine
- December: Turquoise
Almost every jewelry store carries birthstone jewelry, so it should be easy to find a beautiful piece. It’s a timeless accessory that you can cherish for a lifetime.