Drop Necklaces are beautiful, and that extra length can drape wonderfully upon the neckline. It is always a bit of a dilemma finding the perfect top to wear with this sort of necklace. Something with a deep v-neck or a sheer floral blouse would be ideal. I found some great examples, check them out below! All are antique and needed in anyone’s jewelry collection.
This one has an Edwardian style to it, although it does not specify what time period it is from. It is done in 18k white gold and features sapphires and diamonds. That sapphire is very pretty and weighs .80 carats. Priced at $850 from Israel Rose.
A piece from the Art Deco Era, this drop necklace features a gorgeous black opal that is bezel set, dangling from an opal that is also bezel set. All set in platinum, this piece is truly awesome! Priced at $4800 from Doyle & Doyle.
Eye-catching! Circa 1930s, this drop necklace shows off a large ruby and old mine cut diamonds. Of course it is all set in platinum and is priced at $4950. You can find this piece on 1st Dibs.
Just a little spring time inspiration. The Nashville area has been anything but springlike. Oh well…
Beautiful 1920s platinum and diamond ring. The flower motif is elegant and done in a non-trendy way. The total carat weight is 1.2 carats! From Israel Rose and priced at $1650.
18 carats of aquamarine! From the 1950s done in 18k yellow gold, I can’t imagine how eye-catching this bracelet would look like on. The mesh-iness of the entire piece makes it that much more unique. From Israel Rose, priced at $3500.
Jewelry of the 1950s has recently been acknowledged in a historical perspective. Modern day jewelry is everchanging and is not yet considered “historical.”
After WWII, the jewelry industry began to flourish once again. Television and rock & roll were new influences. Several large jewelry houses produced both high-end, luxurious jewelry, as well as smaller classic pieces for your average, middle class consumer. During this time, artisan jewelry emerged, inspiring “Jewelry as Art” or “Wearable Art.” Often this type of jewelry was hand-made and only included one-of-a-kind pieces. There are many collectors of Mid-Century American Studio Jewelry today.
Present-day jewelry is happening now, with trends and motifs all around us. It is only a matter of time until it makes its way into history!
Some motifs and distinctive elements of this time period:
pavé diamonds!
open, textural designs
braided & twisted goldwork
yellow gold paired with gemstones; white gold/platinum paired with diamonds
A star setting is a type of setting where a gemstone is placed in the center of an engraved star, secured by metal added to the star points. This type of setting was popular throughout the 1900s, into the retro period and even into the 80s. Although this kind of setting can easily look tacky, there are many versions that are beautiful. Some great examples are below. Do you like the star setting?
This wide band is done in 14k yellow gold, with ten star set rubies. A great gift idea for anyone with a significance in the number ten–10th anniversary maybe? Priced at $985 from Doyle & Doyle.
Known as a “gypsy” ring circa 1910, this ring features two sapphires and a diamond, all star set. The three-stone ring style is always a favorite. Priced at $2550 from The Three Graces.
Also from The Three Graces are these earrings. Each has a .03 diamond that is star set in 10k and 14k yellow gold. These are a definite spin on classic diamond studs. Priced at $525.
For those who prefer white gold, this diamond star set band is great. All done in 14k white gold with very clean diamonds. Priced at $1400 from Doyle & Doyle.
The Emerald Cut has always been a favorite of mine, especially when it comes to earrings. It compliments the face and adds that extra pop of style. Anyone and everyone has a pair of round diamond studs, but a pair of Emerald cut diamond studs? That is another story!
Check out some of the amazing vintage finds featuring Emerald Cut earrings. Since this style was popular during the Retro Era, most are from that time period.
This pair features large emerald cut aquamarines, totaling over 10 carats! The added diamonds on top give the illusion, to me at least, that there is a tiny bow on top. These are from the 80s although they look very retro. Priced at $1450 from Beladora.
Citrine is a classic retro gem. This pair of earrings even has the 18k rose gold, which was popular during the 30s. From Lang Antiques and priced at $495, with over 10 carats of citrine–so pretty!
Another pair of aquamarine earrings, but this time a lot smaller. These come from Doyle & Doyle and are priced at $450. The gold scrollwork is beautiful and it gives away what time period they are from.
Bold gold, Hollywood starlets, huge gemstones and cocktail rings, all characterize the Retro time period of jewelry. Spanning from 1940-1945, this coincides almost exactly with World War II. With that said, platinum use in jewelry was no longer available. Gold made a comeback, this time in rose and even green gold. Everything in regards to retro jewelry was oversized. Rubies were the most prominent gemstone, followed by large, rectangular cut citrines, aquamarines and amethysts.
Hollywood glamour, as depicted in movies, was popular and let Americans escape from their thoughts about the war. As a result, people tried to mimic the bold jewelry seen in Hollywood spotlights. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor were looked upon for their large collection of bold retro jewels, often decked out in Van Cleef & Arpels or Cartier.
After this period ended, jewelry during this time period was often used as scrap gold, being melted down, while destroying its rich history. As a result, Retro jewelry is highly collectible and will continue to be sought.
Some motifs and distinctive elements of this time period:
bows, florals, scrolls, fans, ribbons, ruffles
Hollywood glamour; oversized jewels, cocktail rings
huge, rectangular cuts of aquamarines, citrines, amethysts, with ruby or sapphire or diamond accents
I checked out Walton’s Antique & Estate Jewelry in Franklin, Tennessee this past weekend, after the frightening tornado outbreak minutes away from my house! A well-deserved trip after the stressfulness of all the weather. Take a look at my pendant purchased as a gift for me below. It is a 14k yellow gold pendant from the 1950s, with a diamond and four sapphires.
It is an amazing store, with a vast selection of antique jewelry. It was a pleasant surprise to see such amazing jewelry in a small shop like this. Their antique engagement ring selection is great–about a four-foot long case full. They also have many bar pins and brooches, several Art Deco cocktail watches with diamonds, great antique bracelets and much more. I highly recommend this store.
If I could have anyone’s jewelry collection it would definitely be Mary-Kate and/or Ashley Olsen’s. Everytime they are photographed, the jewelry that they wear is ecclectic and bold, and almost always vintage. Sure there are other celebrities out there that have to die for diamond rings–with monsterous center stones worth millions. But that doesn’t lure me. I like the uniqueness of the Olsen’s jewelry choices. Each seems as though it has an enchanting story behind it from years passed. These vintage rings, all from Israel Rose, seem as though they all belong on Mary-Kate or Ashley’s finger. Enjoy!
This sapphire and diamond ring is set in platinum, dating back to the Art Deco Era. The diamonds are great because they are Old Mine cut, which you don’t see anymore. The sapphires are French cut. Price: $925
From the Victorian Era comes this 18k yellow gold serpant ring. The Olsens have been seen wearing several snake rings. This one has 3/4 carats of sapphire. Price: $650
Now from the Edwardian time period, this sapphire and diamond ring is done in 18k yellow gold and platinum. The center sapphire is a Cushion cut. Very elegant and dainty. Price: $425
A favorite decorative period of mine is the Art Deco Era, which sprang from the end of WWI. Bouncing back from war efforts, where women desperately had to take over men’s jobs and jewelry production was put on hold, the Art Deco period is characterized by decadence. This period encompasses the 1920s-1930s, during which women gained the right to vote, 15 million new cars were registered and hit the roads (1920-1929), many stock market fortunes were made, all while people danced the Charleston. As you can tell, the jewelry reflected what was happening–especially fashion. The “flapper” style was all the rage. Women rebelled by wearing short dresses, red lipstick, and bobbed hair. Bracelets were piled on, both on the upper and lower arms. Earrings, particularly a dangle style, were popular because of the shorter hairstyles.
As the economy and stock market fourished, Americans continued to spend frivolously, while borrowing heavily. As a result, the stock market crashed. The Great Depression loomed, and the lavish living of the roaring twenties had come to a dramatic halt.
Some motifs and distinctive elements of this time period:
geometric shapes- as influenced by Cubism
white-on-white: platinum with diamonds, this time adding emeralds, sapphires or rubies as well
coral + diamonds, turquoise + sapphires
black enamel to contrast bright gemstone colors
Egyptian motifs, scarab, sphinx & falcon, as influenced by King Tut’s tomb discovery in 1923
Just some amazing pendants, that are delicate and gorgeous! All unique in their own way–different styles, different materials, and from different periods of time. One thing is for sure, they are all vintage and would look great on. Read on for the details…
The white enameling is so unique on this pendant, you don’t see that too often. The green stones are peridots. You can find this piece from Craig Evan Small Estate Jewelry.
This pendant is delicate, intricate–just plain beautiful! It is comprised of moonstones, sapphires and diamonds. What is interesting about this piece is that it was created during a transitional time between two different artistic movements. This has allowed two different styles to be combined into this one pendant. The price is $5400, from Glorius Antique Jewelry, featured at 1stDibs.
This gold and crystal heart pendant belongs to the genre known as regard jewelry, which always includes the use of the stones ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, and diamond. The first letter of each of the gems is an acrostic that spells regard. Interesting, right? Circa 1890, featured at 1stdibs, priced at $1800.
We’ve seen mesh belts and bracelets, but the combination of those two things creates the retro buckle bracelet, popular in the 40s and 50s. Glam Hollywood starlets decked out their wrists with this look. The buckle motif is still trendy today. Below you’ll find some amazing examples of the retro buckle bracelets.
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels with sapphires, diamonds and 18k yellow gold! This bracelet is all about the details: the round sapphires are set in a star setting on hexagonal links, the “buckle” part is bold, with 1.35 carats of diamonds. With 12.5 carats of sapphires to top it all off, any interested party is going to have to request a price check on this piece, from Beladora.
Circa 1945, this buckle bracelet is done in 14k rose gold and platinum from The Three Graces. Although it is not an authentic Cartier piece, this one is almost identical. It can be adjusted to fit your wrist, with its largest size extending to 8.25 inches. The red stones are rubies, with 19 diamonds total. Price: $6250
This bracelet is stunning, from Connoisseur Antiques available at 1stdibs. I like how the buckle is floral, rather than a typical buckle. Everything is set in 18k gold with 3.25 carats of diamonds! Price: $6600
A great alternative to the more expensive and bold choices is this buckle bracelet. The sapphires and diamonds are minimal–the gold mesh is the main focus, which is done in 14k white and yellow. From Lang Antiques, priced at $1450.
Earrings can really make a difference in an outfit or a look. There are so many styles to choose from: hoop, dangle, stud, chandelier… you can go bold or dainty, gemstone or gold. More overwhelming than you thought?
Well, one trend that has a unique look is a bold flower, which nearly covers your entire earlobe. This actually catches your eye and draws your attention to the face. It looks great with your hair up or down, and really balances your entire look. Less jewelry worn in other places is usually a good idea when wearing earrings this bold. Don’t have your ears pierced or don’t like earrings? I have a great option for you too! Check out below.
Vintage Tiffany & Co. from 1960, with ten rubies totaling .33 carats and two diamonds, total. These can be purchased from the Ross-Simons Estate Collection for $1276.
If you want to do the flower trend without going so bold, these earrings are for you. From Israel Rose, these are made of rubies and 18k yellow gold. Price: $750
Poppies are what inspired these earrings–add some pearls and 18k yellow gold, and you got yourself some great earrings. Ross-Simons let’s you choose whether you want clip or post style earrings, at a price of $355. The color and style would be easy to dress up or down.
From 1950s, these lovely earrings feature rubies and 18k yellow gold. They measure 1.25 inches all around, so they are a perfect size for this trend. These are from Israel Rose, a jewelry company who calls the heart of NYC’s diamond district its home. Price: $1900
And for those who do not have pierced ears or like earrings? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Show some flower power with this amazing necklace designed by Elisa Solomon. The daisy is front and center, all in 18k yellow gold and diamonds for $909. Making the necklace even more special is the ancient beads that are used. How could you have a bad day wearing this?!
Every month I nearly die writing out that $550 check for my car payment. Do you realize how nice of a piece of jewelry I could have purchased with that kind of money?! Having a budget and bargain shopping have become everyone’s reality. So how are Americans ever supposed to afford diamonds and gold? With that in mind, I have scoped out some amazing vintage finds that are all under $250. Antique jewelry is the way to go–not only is it “greener,” but its quality and craftsmanship is like no other. Besides, $250 is totally doable if you save change over several months or sell some of your old stuff laying around. With your latest acquisition, it can lift your spirits during these harsh times everytime you look at it!
This necklace is trendy and cute, would be great layered with other necklaces. Circa 1975, the black onyx hearts are totally 70s but would still be fashionable. The setting and chain are 14k yellow gold and priced at $137.50 from Beladora.
Also from Beladora are these great statement earrings. You would never guess these cost $175.50! Such a great investment, and these can be worn with anything and everything. They have a nice twisted style to them, called a “doorknocker” done in 14k yellow gold.
Need some luck? Or maybe even just another stackable bracelet to add to your collection? This is a great find for only $245. The buddha is carved jade, which dangles from a braided leather cord with 14k yellow gold clasps. Make this your everyday bracelet! From C.H.A.R.M.
These are lion doorknocker stud earrings from Doyle & Doyle. From their contemporary heirloom collection, these are 18k white gold. I can picture these looking great with diamond studs and gold cross studs in as well, if you have multiple piercings. Price: $150
And finally, my last pick is this charming necklace from Beladora. I think it would look great layered with the heart necklace above. This is actually an antique bar pin converted into a pendant necklace. Three diamonds top it off, all set in 15k yellow gold (yes, 15k it is not a typo, it is of English origin). Price: $175.50
Check out Beladora’s other pendant necklaces that feature a bar pin converted into a necklace. They are great!
King Edward VII took the throne, which began the Edwardian Period in 1901 and lasted until around 1915, around the start of the first World War. During this time, fashion and opulence were the forefront of society. Women were as feminine as possible, outfitted with delicate layers of feathers, bows, lace and silk. Queen Alexandra was iconic. She often wore many strands of pearls and other necklaces all layered together, as illustrated in the picture below. Progress made in gem cutting made triangles, baguettes and trapeze shapes new and interesting. This time in history marked England as a global, dominant force, with the rich living in extravagance.
The start of World War I made for a quick end to this lavish era of a carefree spirit. Precious metals became scarce, while many people hid away their jewels in vaults or had to sell them.
Some motifs and distinctive elements of this time period:
overuse of platinum; platinum and diamonds
jewelry imitated lace; “lace translated into platinum and diamonds”
milgraining
négligée pendants- two drops of unequal length
sautoir necklaces- long necklaces usually composed of pearls, with tassels on ends
stars, ribbons, bows, garlands
dog collar style choker necklaces
jewels for hair
Peridot was considered the “good luck stone” as popularized by King Edward
eBay is always a fun site to browse during spare time, and even more so a vintage jewelry enthusiast’s dreamland. My list of items I am watching is usually three pages long. I only bid if it is really a piece that is unique and different from what I’ve seen. I also like items that do not have a reserve price and start out very low. It is good to have a price in mind that will serve as what you feel the item is worth, averaged with how much you are willing to pay. I was able to get this great Art Deco ring at a price of $79. It is 14k yellow gold with green jade and lapis stones. The ring came from a great seller [bre-chlo] and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my eBay purchase!
Don’t have the time to strut your stuff on Rodeo Drive? Luckily Beladora is online and you can shop whenever without leaving the comforts of your home. Browse through hundreds of vintage and estate jewels, even designer pieces like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, David Webb and many more. Check back frequently for more additions, and check out their “mini-me” version called Beladora 2, with a more affordable, less ornate selection.
These earrings are destined for the red carpet! 18k yellow and blackened gold, with turquoise and diamonds. Total diamond weight: 2.11 carats! And, hey everyone needs a good pair of chandelier earrings. Price: $1850
Bangles are always chic, but add some bright coral and you’ve got yourself a knock out piece! Circa 1965, this bracelet has 18k yellow and white gold with diamonds and coral intertwined. Price: $4250
Elegant emerald necklace–so delicate and truly a statement of its time. From 1965, it is done in none other than platinum. Beladora describes it as having a ‘negligee’ style. Price: $14500
Sometimes pearl necklaces all look the same to me! However, this pearl necklace is unlike any I’ve seen. The clasp is gorgeous, featuring a diamond and six sapphires. Now, if your necklace is on backwards, it will look better! Price: $535.50
Mary-Kate spices up a solid black dress by adding some bold jewelry. The ring definitely catches your eye and a closer look reveals that it is actually turquoise. The ring is a round, cabochon cut with stones circling around the perimeter–looks as though the stones are diamonds. Ross-Simons Estate Collection has a very similar ring, seen below. Circa 2000, this ring is only 9 years old. The turquoise is surrounded by .75 carats and set in 18k white gold. Priced at $1836–Mary-Kate’s is most likely more!
These beautiful pieces of jewelry featuring jade will never leave you feeling jaded. The combination of white gold or platinum with jade, whether it is a cabochon or carved, is just so pretty to me. Owning a piece of jade jewelry is necessary for any jewelry enthusiast. Check out the lovely vintage picks below!
American made, vintage from the 1920s–these beautiful carved jade earrings are set in platinum and diamonds. Bring the roaring twenties back when wearing these, fitted with original screwbacks that were popular then. From Lawrence Jeffrey Estate Jewelers and priced at $3800.
From the Edwardian Period come these platinum, diamond and jade earrings. I love the bow motif that was always seen during this time period, and having it paired with the jade is even more interesting. Priced at $9000 from Meriwether.
These vintage jade earrings have the carved jade style that I love. I like the subtle etching with the tiny holes, gives it a great, almost delicate look. I’ve never seen jewelry done in platinum over 18k yellow gold, but here is the first example! Priced at $2450 from Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry.
Posted by gemgossip 
Jewelry Blog | Gem Gossip 