Do you own some vintage or antique jewelry, but you aren’t sure what you really have? Did you inherit it from a grandparent or even a great-grandparent? Are you interested in knowing more about different historic period styles? Some styles are more highly valued than others. If you have more information, you’ll realize which pieces to keep and which ones you may want to sell.

Below is a description of several historic periods that also have the most collectible jewelry. Origin and style add value and interest to vintage and antique jewelry.

Victorian Jewelry

Jewelry from the Victorian era is dated from 1837 to 1901. Named after Queen Victoria, this was a time of world prosperity with the Industrial Revolution and the rise of the middle class. During this period of time a larger portion of the population had disposable income for the first time and England was a hub for beautiful jewelry design. Victorian jewelry commonly features pearls, shells, and gemstones and can be very decorative in design.

Art Nouveau Jewelry

Attitudes began to change toward the end of the 1800s, creating a strong cultural movement called Art Nouveau dating from 1890 to 1914. This new movement added designs from nature with sensual and voluptuous women. A new enamel technique allowed more light to shine through Art Nouveau jewelry and other artwork. Familiar styles during this era contained sinuous lines flowers, insects, animals, and women with flowing hair. This is still a very popular jewelry style today.

Edwardian Jewelry

From 1901 to 1910, this brief Edwardian era is known for its elegance. Jewelry began to be made from platinum, and technology helped to lower costs while increasing production. Cutting and setting diamonds with new methods allowed a more refined appearance. Diamonds, colored stones, and pearls became admired and most common.

Art Deco Jewelry

The Roaring Twenties brought in the dazzling Art Deco era. From 1920 to 1939 jewelry was luxurious, with exciting and symmetrical designs. Pyramids, stepped structures, as well as linear and geometric forms were used in everything from architecture to hairstyles to clothing to jewelry. This is highly sought-after jewelry today.

Retro Modern Jewelry

From 1935 to 1955, jewelry became flashy and worn by American Hollywood stars, who influenced many fashion and accessory styles. Because of World War II, many metals were unavailable and different colors of gold (white, rose) were produced. Curves, bows, and scrolls were very popular jewelry designs, and rubies were the most fashionable gemstones to use.

Top Tips for Selling Jewelry Privately

Follow these tips when you decide to sell your jewelry and you’ll seldom go wrong:

  • Always sell to a reputable, trusted, professional organization or establishment familiar with jewelry, such as Showplace Estate Buyers.
  • Try to avoid, whenever possible, selling valuable jewelry online. The repercussions could be many.

Showplace Estate Buyers – Trusted and Reputable

Vintage and antique jewelry from any of these eras may be one-of-a-kind and rare, as well as quite valuable. In addition, jewelry goes through phases of popularity. What is out of style now, could be back in style in 10 years.

Selling jewelry privately can be involved and require more effort than you’re willing to put forth at this time. If you plan on selling any of your jewelry, be sure to speak with one of our experts to find out what it’s worth.

Not only do we give free consultations and pay higher prices than our competitors, but we will come to you. We buy partial or full estates and we buy outright – no middleman.

Call us today!