When jewelry is between 50 and 100 years old, it is classified as vintage. For example, jewelry from the ’60s and early ’70s is now considered vintage. Art Deco remains the most enduring design period in estate jewelry, a market favorite for its timeless qualities. It is recognized for its mix of bold colors, geometric forms, and diverse materials. Diamonds were very popular in the period, often combined with rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. The use of black onyx contrasted with white diamonds and rock crystal is another defining characteristic. Cartier, Tiffany, and Van Cleef & Arpels are considered to have created some of their most iconic work during the Art Deco period.
Art Nouveau is more decorative. It is all about flowing curves, often with floral, leaf, and scrolling vine motifs. Other common motifs include dragonflies, peacocks, snakes, and the female silhouette. Rene Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany were major designers of Art Nouveau jewelry. Art Nouveau flourished between 1880 and 1914, which qualifies much of it as antique, whereas Art Deco emerged later, in 1920, lasting until about 1940. An overlapping style, Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the late 1930s and 1940s and that are a little more futuristic looking than traditional Art Deco. Makers experimented with different gold alloys and combined both Art Deco and Art Nouveau motifs. The world of estate jewelry is vast and varied and full of pleasant surprises. It is full of possibilities for great ways to boost your jewelry wardrobe.
Embrace vintage and estate beauties in our Buckhead & Roswell stores.
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