What excites people about owning a piece of jewelry from a past era? It's different for everyone. 

 For some the allure is its mystique.

For others it's the charm of the past.

A bygone time that we can only get a glimpse of through museums.

And for others still, it's the value.

What's the Difference?

Here’s our short primer on the terms you’ll hear in the world of vintage jewelry and what they mean:

Vintage Jewelry: Made in 1990s or earlier, vintage jewelry is a piece that is at least 20 years old. However, go back too far and you're talking antique not vintage (even though the piece will still be technically vintage.) 

Antique Jewelry: This is jewelry that's approximately a century or more old. Just be cautious of the term "antique style" which may indicate the piece is a reproduction. Working with a reputable dealer is your best bet. 

Estate Jewelry: Any piece that has been owned, worn or used before. That means all second-hand jewelry, including vintage and antique but jewelers typically use the word estate if the piece was made in the past 30 years. Even a piece that's only a few weeks old is state jewelry if it's been owned or worn by someone previously. 

We're here to protect you! Untrustworthy dealers use the above terms in misleading ways. If you ever have any doubt, give us a call and we'll help you determine the truth. We can also help you assess the value of your collection. Learn more about our appraisal services here. 

Whatever it is that draws someone into the world of vintage, it's truly a wondrous one – and work exploring further. 

Start with our vintage collection then make an appointment to try on a few pieces. After all, our home is your home and whether you come as part of a fun day out, simply to browse or ready to buy, we can't wait to see you!

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