You must be wondering how to look for jewelry that never goes out of style.
Vintage treasure jewelry is officially killing it right now. Sales for vintage and antique jewelry has grown 15% between 2021 and 2023 and are expected to keep rising.
The truth is…
Vintage treasure jewelry pieces have a history behind them. Art Deco diamonds that saw the Roaring 20s or Victorian brooches that were seen in elegant ballrooms back in the day — these are not your everyday accessories.
It is, portable history.
Table of Contents
- 1 The Vintage Jewelry Trend Is Here To Stay
- 2 The 4 Vintage Styles Dominating The Fashion World
- 3 Tips To Spot Authentic Vintage Pieces
- 4 The Best Places To Shop Vintage Jewelry
- 5 Understanding The Investment Potential Of Vintage Jewelry
- 6 The Modern Appeal of Timeless Pieces
- 7 Caring For Your Vintage Pieces
- 8 In The Spotlight: Current Trends
- 9 Breaking It Down
What you’ll learn:
- The Vintage Jewelry Trend Is Here To Stay
- 4 Vintage Styles Dominating The Fashion World
- Tips To Spot Authentic Vintage Pieces
- The Best Places To Shop Vintage Jewelry
- Understanding The Investment Potential Of Vintage Jewelry
The Vintage Jewelry Trend Is Here To Stay
Vintage jewelry is not only making a comeback, it’s dominating!
These are the driving factors:
Consumers of the new generation want to wear unique, non-cookie-cutter pieces. They want pieces with a history and personality. Vintage treasure jewelry provides exactly that.
Not only that, though…
Did you know more than 50% of Gen Z and millennial buyers say they’re buying used products to help with sustainability efforts?
Vintage jewelry pairs well with the sustainable mindset. By purchasing vintage pieces you are not contributing to new mining and production. You’re giving older pieces a second chance at life.
Doesn’t that feel smarter?
Vintage treasure jewelry also often contains better craftsmanship than found in current mass-produced pieces. The detail in an Art Deco ring from the 1920s or a cocktail necklace from the 1950s cannot be beat.
The 4 Vintage Styles Dominating The Fashion World
Not all vintage jewelry styles are equal. Some are just dominating the fashion world at the moment.
These are the vintage styles you should be most familiar with:
Art Deco Glamour (1920s-1930s)
Pieces from the Art Deco period are the reigning champions of vintage jewelry right now. These styles are all about geometric patterns, serious glamour, and of course that luxe factor.
They also pair perfectly with modern minimalist outfits and formal attire.
Victorian Romance (1837-1901)
Victorian jewelry is all about that vintage, romantic, intricate style that everyone who is obsessed with detail loves.
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s)
The sleek lines, modern elements, and bold colors of the mid-century are simply ideal for the modern fashion enthusiast. Chunky bangles and bold cocktail rings are hard to resist.
These are the styles to look out for when you’re out there browsing for that real treasure jewelry. These will provide the best bang for your buck, style, and investment wise.
Tips To Spot Authentic Vintage Pieces
The thing is…
The popularity of vintage jewelry has resulted in a huge influx of fakes and reproductions. You need to know what to look for when shopping for vintage pieces.
Spotting the real thing:
- Look for hallmarks and maker’s marks that indicate the metal and manufacturer
- Vintage pieces should have obvious hand-craftsmanship
- Patina and wear patterns on authentic vintage jewelry are natural and difficult to fake
- Materials matter and there are materials and stones that were popular in different eras
Don’t be afraid to request certification or documentation on the provenance of the jewelry. A good seller will be happy to provide this.
The Best Places To Shop Vintage Jewelry
Vintage doesn’t mean you need to pay thousands of dollars for a beautiful piece of jewelry.
The best places to look for vintage jewelry are:
Estate Sales and Auctions
Estate sales are the motherlode of all things authentic and reasonably priced. You often find family heirlooms that have been overlooked by dealers.
Antique Shows and Markets
Events like these bring together serious dealers who know their stuff. Prices are fair and there is a high probability of authenticity.
Online Marketplaces
Sites like Etsy and niche vintage jewelry marketplaces have an amazing selection. Do your research on seller ratings and return policies, though.
Local Antique Shops
Building relationships with local dealers can help you find the first chance at amazing pieces before the sales floor.
Understanding The Investment Potential Of Vintage Jewelry
Did you know that vintage treasure jewelry can be an investment?
Yes, that’s right! The luxury jewelry market is valued at around $47.09 billion in 2023. It’s expected to increase to around $95.72 billion by 2032. Vintage jewelry from recognized vintage periods typically appreciates quicker than the general market.
Vintage jewelry hold its value because:
- These items are not reproducible, for example no more 1920s Art Deco rings
- Vintage items often have superior craftsmanship
- Jewelry from important periods in history are in demand and can increase value quickly
Purchase what you love first, and invest second.
The Modern Appeal of Timeless Pieces
Vintage treasure jewelry has an allure that we cannot define.
The pieces are also extremely versatile which allows them to seamlessly integrate with modern fashion. A brooch from the 1940s can elevate a plain blazer. Victorian earrings pair well with an otherwise casual dress.
Vintage jewelry pieces are:
Vintage jewelry has that je ne sais quoi that makes everything look more luxe and expensive. It’s the difference between looking pulled together and looking interesting.
Fashion is all about mixing, high and low, old and new. Vintage jewelry is an easy way to add character to an outfit.
Caring For Your Vintage Pieces
A vital part of building your vintage treasure jewelry collection is knowing how to take care of it.
Maintenance 101:
- Keep your jewelry pieces separate to avoid scratching
- Clean gently with a method that is appropriate for the metal type
- Take antique jewelry for professional service and maintenance when needed
After all, these pieces have already been through decades of wear. With proper care, you can ensure they live on for many more generations.
In The Spotlight: Current Trends
Vintage jewelry is always changing, and some trends are very hot at the moment.
Trends to know about:
- Layered vintage necklaces
- Statement vintage brooches are back
- Converted vintage pieces
- Colored gemstones as well as diamonds
The key is finding vintage jewelry that fits your style while staying true to the vintage style.
Breaking It Down
Vintage treasure jewelry is not about looking back at fashion. It’s about bringing the best elements of the past into today.
Vintage treasure jewelry pieces provide all modern jewelry enthusiasts want. Unique, quality, sustainable and it has investment potential. Vintage jewelry lovers are spoiled for choice with all the vintage styles available.
The market is hot, selection is insane, and styling is only limited by your imagination.
Buy a few pieces, learn as you go, and most importantly, have fun with it.
Vintage treasure jewelry is the real deal because it connects us with the past and helps us create our own unique style for the future.