Kiefer Jewelers Magazine, Autumn/Holiday 2025

ESTATE JEWELRY eauty B WITH A BACKSTORY

By Annie Davidson Watson

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In the ever-evolving world of fashion, estate jewelry offers a sense of permanence. These are pieces with provenance — styles that span centuries and still manage to feel entirely modern. From the intricate filigree of Edwardian brooches to the sculptural boldness of ’70s gold, estate jewelry speaks to those who appreciate beauty with a backstory. The spectrum is expansive: one moment it’s a hand-engraved Victorian locket, the next, a rare Hermès cuff from the early aughts. Some are drawn to the poetry of

the past: the soft glow of old mine- cut diamonds, the symmetry of Art Deco, the fluid lines of Art Nouveau. Others chase the allure of near- modern icons — pieces just out of production already steeped in cult status. The magic lies in the mix and in the slow, intentional act of collecting jewelry that shifts and grows with every chapter.

Today, jewelry is less about a single signature and more about the mix — a bold cocktail ring for dinner, a delicate chain for morning meetings, heirloom earrings that anchor a wedding look. With estate jewelry, personal style becomes layered and dimensional — and certainly a conversation point. But provenance, condition, and authenticity, of course, matter. A reputable dealer sells more than jewels — they’re offering expertise, preservation, and often restoration. The right source ensures each piece is as legitimate as it is beautiful.

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36 | KIEFER JEWELERS MAGAZINE

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