When defining antique jewelry, it is generally 50 to 80 years old. More times than not, this type of jewelry are family heirlooms that have been passed down from previous generations.
There are occasions when there is history behind the piece, making it more valuable.
Most of all, antique jewelry is a type of family treasure, loved for it’s past history and not so much for monetary value. If you are shopping for antique jewelry, there are 5 basic types: Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Estate, Edwardian and Victorian.
Estate pieces are previously owned pieces that tend to highlight excellent workmanship. They are usually very affordable, when compared to the prices of new pieces. You can come across this type of antique jewelry at auctions, where pieces such as engagement rings, bracelets, pendants and wedding rings are the norm.
Victorian era antique jewelry can be extremely expensive, often times in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. This era highlighted hair jewelry, where locks of hair were thought of as personal mementos. The saved hair was later crafted into pieces such as rings, watch chains and bracelets as mementos of the departed.
Art deco antique jewelry features pieces from 1920 to 1935. This type of jewelry features bright colors and straight lines, with long earrings being the most popular pieces. Art deco antique jewelry generally features gemstones such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Pieces from this era are highly sought after, making them very expensive and hard to find.
Antique jewelry from the early 1900s to 1915 is considered Edwardian. Pieces from this time featured filigree paterns, pearls set in platinum and diamonds.
Antique art nouveau jewelry is from the 1890s to the early 1920s. The main inspiration for jewelry druing this time was nature, with orchids, lilies, butterflies and dragons being the most popular motifs. Precious and semi precious gemstones, ivory, copper shell and horn were largely featured.