While the term “estate jewelry” may conjure up images of elegant Victorian women adorned in sparkling gemstones and diamonds, or the breathtaking geometric masterpieces of the Art Deco era, estate jewelry, in simple terms, means previously owned jewelry. Estate jewelry can include pieces from 1 year ago to 150 years ago or more.
You may have heard the terms “vintage jewelry” and “antique jewelry” as well, which both often fall into the category of estate jewelry. Vintage jewelry typically refers to jewelry between 50-100 years old. Antique jewelry typically refers to jewelry 100 years old or older. Multiple time periods fall into each category. For example, all Victorian jewelry would be considered antique jewelry.
The estate jewelry collection at Nelson Coleman Jewelers in Frederick features a vast and varied collection spanning different eras including Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Retro, and more contemporary pieces. Each piece in our collection has been curated to embody the legacy and exquisite craftsmanship of its time. Nelson Coleman Jewelers’ GIA-certified gemologists appraise each estate jewelry piece that comes through our doors using industry guidelines to offer the best prices available.
Exploring the Eras of Estate Jewelry
Several notable time periods can be mentioned when discussing vintage and antique jewelry. Each period has certain types of literature, art, architecture, and social or cultural movements which can be defined as characteristic of that time and had an impact on the jewelry produced during that time. While several of the time periods have overlapping concepts and themes, each era produced beautiful jewelry with distinct aesthetic qualities.
Victorian Jewelry (1837-1901)
The Victorian period spanned Queen Victoria’s rule of England and is often categorized into three periods: Early, Middle, and Late. Queen Victoria’s fashion tastes heavily influenced jewelry made during this time.
While there are some differences in style between the three periods of the Victorian era, Victorian jewelry is generally characterized as romantic and sentimental. These pieces were often adorned with intricate details and symbolic designs including hearts, flowers, and other popular motifs.
The Victorian era also saw a revival in ancient jewelry designs, most notably Gothic, Etruscan, and Egyptian styles. It was also an era when both cameo jewelry and hair jewelry saw a resurgence in popularity, as they reinforced the era’s emphasis on sentimentality and symbolism.
The death of Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, in 1861, caused Queen Victoria to go into public mourning which also caused a huge resurgence in the wearing of mourning jewelry. Mourning jewelry of that time largely adhered to the sentimental value of the era while specifically incorporating dark colors such as black enamel, black onyx, or jet, as well as hair.
Browse the Victorian jewelry collection at Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Art Nouveau Jewelry (1895-1910)
Art Nouveau jewelry is characterized by its embrace of organic forms, fluid lines, and intricate craftsmanship, reflecting a departure from the rigid constraints of the Victorian era.
Inspired by the natural world, Art Nouveau artists sought to capture the beauty of flora and fauna in their designs, incorporating motifs such as flowers, leaves, insects, and flowing curves. This emphasis on natural forms led to the creation of pieces that were both elegant and ethereal, with designs that appeared to grow and evolve organically, echoing the beauty of the natural world. The artwork of Alphonse Mucha accurately depicts many of the aesthetic qualities of that time.
In addition to its emphasis on organic forms, Art Nouveau jewelry is renowned for its innovative use of materials and techniques. Techniques such as plique-à-jour enamel, which creates a stained-glass effect, and the use of delicate wirework and repoussé added depth and dimension to Art Nouveau pieces. These techniques resulted in jewelry that was not only visually striking but also technically impressive.
Overall, Art Nouveau jewelry represents a fusion of artistry, innovation, and natural beauty, embodying the spirit of creativity and freedom that defined the Art Nouveau movement.
Browse Art Nouveau jewelry and Art Nouveau-inspired jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Edwardian Jewelry (1900-1915)
Edwardian jewelry is characterized by its delicate and elegant designs, reflecting the refined aesthetics of the Edwardian era, which spanned from 1901 to 1910. Inspired by the lavish and romantic style of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, Edwardian jewelry embraced a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Pieces from this period often featured intricate filigree work, intricate lace-like patterns, and openwork designs, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Platinum became increasingly popular during the Edwardian era due to its strength and durability, allowing jewelers to create intricate pieces with delicate, airy structures.
Diamonds were the gemstone of choice during the Edwardian era, favored for their brilliance and versatility. Edwardian jewelry often showcased diamonds in elaborate settings, such as garlands, ribbons, and bows, creating a sense of lightness and movement. Modern jewelry-makers, Whitehouse Brothers, have a stunning collection of Edwardian-inspired engagement rings that beautifully capture the aesthetics of the time.
Pearls were also highly prized during this time, symbolizing purity and elegance, and were frequently used in conjunction with diamonds to create stunning combinations of shimmering white. Overall, Edwardian jewelry exudes a sense of grace and refinement, with designs that epitomize the elegance and sophistication of the era.
Browse Edwardian jewelry and Edwardian-inspired jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jewelers.
Art Deco Jewelry (1920-1935)
Art Deco jewelry is characterized by its geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate designs, reflecting the dynamic and modern aesthetic of the Art Deco movement, which flourished during the 1920s and 1930s. Influenced by the machine age, as well as by archaeological discoveries and the cultural shifts of the time, Art Deco jewelry features symmetrical patterns, angular lines, and streamlined forms. The Chrysler Building in New York City is a great example of the design aesthetics of the Art Deco era.
Precious metals such as platinum and white gold were favored for their sleek and modern appearance, while gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires were often set in geometric arrangements or contrasting colors to create striking visual effects.
While Art Deco jewelry embraced modernity and innovation, it also drew inspiration from previous eras, incorporating elements of Egyptian, Asian, and African art, as well as motifs from the Classical, Renaissance, and Rococo periods.
This eclectic blend of influences resulted in designs that were both timeless and cutting-edge, with a focus on luxury, glamour, and sophistication. Overall, Art Deco jewelry represents a bold and glamorous departure from the ornate styles of the past, reflecting the spirit of progress and optimism that characterized the interwar period.
Explore Art Deco jewelry and Art Deco-inspired jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Retro Jewelry (1940-1949)
Retro jewelry, also known as Retro Modern or Cocktail jewelry, emerged during the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s, and is characterized by its bold, glamorous, and sculptural designs. Influenced by the glamor of Hollywood and the technological advancements of the time, Retro jewelry features oversized and statement-making pieces that exude luxury and opulence. A great example of Retro-era aesthetics can be found in the TV show “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, which includes retro-inspired costumes, set designs, cinematography, and music.
Yellow and rose gold were popular metals during this period, often paired with colorful gemstones such as aquamarines, citrines, and amethysts, as well as synthetic gemstones like rubies and sapphires.
Drawing inspiration from the past, particularly from the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements, Retro jewelry incorporated elements of geometric patterns, floral motifs, and sleek, streamlined forms. However, it also reflected the changing cultural landscape of the mid-20th century, with designs that embraced the optimism and exuberance of post-war America.
Retro jewelry can be characterized by its emphasis on volume and scale, as well as its playful and whimsical designs, making it a distinctive and memorable style that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today.
Explore Retro jewelry and Retro-inspired jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Mid-Century Modern Jewelry (1940s-1960s)
Mid-Century modern jewelry, spanning approximately from the 1940s to the late 1960s, is characterized by sleek and minimalist designs that reflect the aesthetic and cultural shifts of the time. Influenced by post-World War II sentiments of optimism and progress, Mid-Century modern jewelry often features clean lines, geometric shapes, and abstract motifs.
This era overlapped with the rise of retro jewelry, incorporating elements of Art Deco, Bauhaus, and Scandinavian design into its aesthetic. The use of innovative materials such as stainless steel, acrylic, and plastic became prevalent, allowing for experimentation with unconventional forms and textures. The Eames shell chair, still popular today, is one example of the Mid-Century modern design aesthetics.
Moreover, the emphasis on functionality and practicality in everyday life influenced jewelry designs, leading to pieces that were both stylish and wearable for the modern, independent woman of the era. Overall, Mid-Century modern jewelry embodies a timeless elegance and forward-thinking spirit that continues to resonate with contemporary tastes.
Browse Mid-Century Modern Jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jewelers
Contemporary Estate Jewelry (1970s to present)
Estate jewelry styles from the 1970s to the present showcase a diverse range of design aesthetics influenced by changing cultural trends, technological advancements, and shifting societal values. Each decade has its own distinct characteristics, reflecting the prevailing fashion movements and design philosophies of the time.
The jewelry designs of the 1970s embraced bold experimentation and self-expression, featuring eclectic and oversized pieces with vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and natural motifs. The jewelry of the 1980s saw a shift towards opulence and glamour, with statement-making jewelry adorned with large gemstones, intricate metalwork, and elaborate detailing reflecting the era's wealth and status symbols.
The jewelry of the 1990s favored a more understated and minimalist design approach, with sleek lines, simple shapes, and subdued color palettes reflecting the decade's emphasis on casual elegance and practicality. In the early 2000s, jewelry design trends leaned towards a mix of vintage revival and modern sophistication, combining classic elements with contemporary touches for a timeless yet fresh aesthetic.
From the bold and extravagant designs of the 1970s to the sleek and minimalist aesthetics of the 2000s, estate jewelry from these decades offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of style and craftsmanship over the past half-century.
Browse Contemporary Estate Jewelry at Nelson Coleman Jeweler’s
Why Buy Estate Jewelry?
In today's fast-paced world, there's a growing appreciation for the timeless elegance and unique charm of vintage and antique jewelry. Beyond their stunning beauty, these pieces embody a sense of history and nostalgia that is unmatched by contemporary pieces.
Each piece carries a story, reflecting the craftsmanship, style, and sentimentality of its era. Whether it's a delicate Art Nouveau pendant or a bold Art Deco cocktail ring, these treasures provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of bygone eras.
Another of its appealing aspects is the potential to acquire pieces at a reduced cost compared to contemporary jewelry of comparable style and quality. With estate jewelry, savvy shoppers can adorn themselves with luxurious pieces steeped in history and character, all while enjoying significant savings.
Embracing vintage and antique jewelry will add depth and diversity to your collection. By incorporating vintage and antique pieces alongside contemporary ones, you're curating a collection that speaks to your individual style and appreciation for craftsmanship, regardless of its era.
How Do You Wear Estate Jewelry?
Adorning yourself with jewelry is a great opportunity to accentuate your personal style through self-expression. Whether you love vintage-inspired attire and want to complement it with antique or vintage jewelry, or you prefer a modern wardrobe and want to add a contrasting statement piece, or you simply want to feel like you’re from the cast of Bridgerton, there is no wrong way to wear estate jewelry.
Since the metal colors and gemstone types from vintage and antique jewelry often coincide with contemporary jewelry, it can be an enjoyable experience to find ways to coordinate these pieces to suit your personal style. Whether you want to pair a statement brooch with a neutral-tone blazer suit or create an entire outfit of intricate design or color, estate jewelry offers beautiful and unique pieces that have become one-of-a-kind with the passing of time.
Choosing an estate vintage or antique engagement ring is also a great way to bring an additional element of romance and sentimental value into your love story. From elegantly understated diamond solitaire rings to opulent and luxurious Edwardian diamond rings, estate engagement rings offer an enchanting allure as a symbol of your enduring love and lifelong commitment.
From our exquisite selection of estate necklaces to estate rings, we’ve got something for all your styling needs. The estate jewelry collection at Nelson Coleman Jewelers features an unparalleled selection of heirloom treasures to tell your story in style and luxury.
Visit our Frederick location to discover these artifacts of history and continue the narrative of these stunning pieces. Find your connection to the past at our Frederick store located on West Patrick Street.