Did you know that Conti Jewelers offers an uncommon selection of estate pieces? We love getting the chance to bring our customers unique, high-quality jewelry that cannot be found anywhere else.
“Estate Jewelry” is used to describe previously owned jewelry, and most commonly antique, vintage, or retro in nature. These terms are used to help date pieces of fine jewelry; but what is considered vintage, and what is considered antique?
Vintage jewelry refers to a piece that is at least 20 to 30 years old and speaks to a certain era or period. This term, however, is relative because it can also refer to the era when you grew up in! If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, then items from that era are considered “vintage”. Think that faded Denim Jacket hanging in your closet or your grandmother’s engagement ring from the 1940s.
In the jewelry industry, “Antique” references a piece that is at least 100 years old. Many Art Deco pieces from the 1920s have recently become antique, especially the pieces designed in the earliest parts of the decade. Beware of the term “antique style” which indicates a piece is a reproduction - made to look old, but not the real deal.
Retro relates to pieces created in the late 1930s and 1940s when designers’ creations were largely influenced by the effects of World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic designs, shapes, and styles mirroring the world marching into the future. Bracelets and chains resemble the treads of the tanks during the war, Yellow and Rose Gold used widely with strict wartime restrictions being placed on Platinum. The Retro period’s unique fusion of past and present resulted in a beautiful and vast collection of history to choose from.
The Estate pieces you’ll find at CONTI Jewelers have been chosen based on their authenticity and quality. They are unique, and oftentimes one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s an Antique Platinum and Ruby Diamond Ring with bold contracts, a vintage pair of Silver Hoops from the 90s, or a Retro Gold and Gemstone Brooch, there’s a treasure full of history waiting for you or a loved one.
“Estate Jewelry” is used to describe previously owned jewelry, and most commonly antique, vintage, or retro in nature. These terms are used to help date pieces of fine jewelry; but what is considered vintage, and what is considered antique?
Vintage jewelry refers to a piece that is at least 20 to 30 years old and speaks to a certain era or period. This term, however, is relative because it can also refer to the era when you grew up in! If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, then items from that era are considered “vintage”. Think that faded Denim Jacket hanging in your closet or your grandmother’s engagement ring from the 1940s.
In the jewelry industry, “Antique” references a piece that is at least 100 years old. Many Art Deco pieces from the 1920s have recently become antique, especially the pieces designed in the earliest parts of the decade. Beware of the term “antique style” which indicates a piece is a reproduction - made to look old, but not the real deal.
Retro relates to pieces created in the late 1930s and 1940s when designers’ creations were largely influenced by the effects of World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic designs, shapes, and styles mirroring the world marching into the future. Bracelets and chains resemble the treads of the tanks during the war, Yellow and Rose Gold used widely with strict wartime restrictions being placed on Platinum. The Retro period’s unique fusion of past and present resulted in a beautiful and vast collection of history to choose from.
The Estate pieces you’ll find at CONTI Jewelers have been chosen based on their authenticity and quality. They are unique, and oftentimes one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s an Antique Platinum and Ruby Diamond Ring with bold contracts, a vintage pair of Silver Hoops from the 90s, or a Retro Gold and Gemstone Brooch, there’s a treasure full of history waiting for you or a loved one.
Blog contribution by Kimburlee Stewart