What is Estate Jewelry?
What do you think of when you hear the words “estate jewelry”? Is it the elegant designs of shows like Bridgerton or the bold styles of 1920s Art Deco flappers? Both of those answers would be correct, but the definition of estate jewelry is surprisingly broad and straightforward. In this blog, we’ll define estate jewelry and how it compares to terms like vintage jewelry, antique jewelry, and more.
Estate Jewelry Definition
Estate jewelry refers to any pre-owned jewelry. This can mean pre-owned jewelry ranging from contemporary to vintage, antique, and ancient. Estate jewelry is a broad term that covers several styles, including vintage, antique, Art Nouveau, Victorian, and many more.
Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Most vintage and antique jewelry also falls under the category of estate jewelry, as it is almost always pre-owned. Vintage jewelry refers to any piece that is 50-100 years old. Antique jewelry is any piece more than 100 years old. So, while vintage and antique jewelry is almost always estate jewelry, estate jewelry from earlier than 50 years ago will not fall into one of those categories.
There are also historical periods that coincide with distinct jewelry trends, like Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Victorian. These time periods have defined time ranges, though there is sometimes not exact agreement about the dates. These time periods also fall within the category of vintage or antique. For example, a butterfly pendant made around the year 1900 would be classified as Art Nouveau, antique, and estate jewelry. A geometric diamond ring made in 1930 would be Art Deco, vintage, and estate.
Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Most vintage and antique jewelry also falls under the category of estate jewelry, as it is almost always pre-owned. Vintage jewelry refers to any piece that is 50-100 years old. Antique jewelry is any piece more than 100 years old. So, while vintage and antique jewelry is almost always estate jewelry, estate jewelry from earlier than 50 years ago will not fall into one of those categories.
There are also historical periods that coincide with distinct jewelry trends, like Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Victorian. These time periods have defined time ranges, though there is sometimes not exact agreement about the dates. These time periods also fall within the category of vintage or antique. For example, a butterfly pendant made around the year 1900 would be classified as Art Nouveau, antique, and estate jewelry. A geometric diamond ring made in 1930 would be Art Deco, vintage, and estate.
| TERM | DEFINITION |
|---|---|
| Estate Jewelry | Jewelry that was previously owned |
| Vintage Jewelry | Jewelry that is 50-100 years old |
| Antique Jewelry | Jewelry that is 100 years or older |
| Georgian Jewelry | 1714-1835, antique |
| Victorian Jewelry | 1837-1907, antique |
| Art Nouveau Jewelry | 1895-1910, antique |
| Edwardian Jewelry | 1900-1915, antique |
| Art Deco Jewelry | 1920-1935, antique or vintage |
| Retro Jewelry | 1940-1949, vintage |
| Mid-Century Modern Jewelry | 1940s-1960s, vintage |
Jewelry By Designs: Curated Estate Jewelry & Restoration Services
At Jewelry By Designs, we take pride in offering a curated collection of authentic estate jewelry that reflects timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship. To help keep your jewelry in excellent condition, we offer complimentary basic inspections and cleanings, ensuring small issues can be addressed early.
For more specialized needs, our expert restoration services and spa treatment options can bring your cherished pieces back to life. Additionally, our certified professionals provide jewelry appraisals to offer accurate valuations, giving you confidence in the care and value of your collection. Visit Jewelry By Designs to explore our unique collection and discover the timeless allure of estate jewelry.
