Vintage Estate Jewelry

Selecting fine vintage jewelry involves insights into history, gemstones and precious metals. Buyers who are armed with basic knowledge can recognize which pieces are of the quality that they desire and can then let their personal tastes narrow down the choices.

For those who seek fine rings, earrings or other estate jewelry of the earliest vintage available, Victorian-era antiques can still be found in the upper price ranges. These may be characterized by delicate yellow-gold or silver metal work, often set with diamonds or other gemstones. Early stone cuts, such as the rose or old mine, will be recognizable by deep and relatively few facets, compared to modern ones.

Buyers looking for similar elaborate mountings of more durable material may consider Edwardian vintages. Platinum had widely replaced silver for that color choice, and stone cuts had progressed as well. The round European cut featured a machined girdle, and the Asscher cut introduced dramatic square or oblong terraces. Diamonds were by far the most popular gemstone, sometimes accented with sapphires, rubies or emeralds.

Finding a Trusted Source for Fine Vintage Jewelry

Those who are purchasing finished vintage jewelry should do so from a respected dealer, because antique set diamonds are rarely certified unless the piece has undergone intensive restoration. Old diamond cuts, with their open culets, draw the eye into the cut stone. Therefore, the clarity of the gem is of greater importance than in modern stones. A reputable source such as Single Stone offers only the finest estate jewelry, plus extremely knowledgeable service. A visit to their showrooms allows Santa Barbara and other California buyers to compare many fine pieces before making an informed decision.