Vintage ring popularity continues to be on the rise, with their incredibly one-of-a-kind bygone designs, something old is definitely new again - and highly sought after. Brides (and Grooms) on the hunt for Estate rarities know Sparks Street is the go-to hub for curated collections.
Why the alternative craving for jewelry with a mystery history? Here's our 101:
Individual style & personality - intricate designs that virtually no other has the same, you instantly become part of the piece's story, there's a truly special depth to that
Timelessness - from a bygone era, these styles will continue to be here for generations and have an heirloom quality of impeccable craftsmanship nearly impossible to replicate (look for a maker's mark)
Sustainability - using the same ring that has existed for 20-100 years
Price - take advantage of these remarkable finds as the quality and durability is often so incredible (and often indistinguishable) compared to newly manufactured...even designer pieces are available at a modest price
The Classic Terms:
Estate: all encompassing label or category for pre-owned pieces that spans multiple eras
Vintage: at least 20 to 100 years (would you believe the 1990s counts?!)
Antique: at least 100 years old or older (think 1920s+... here's where the ever popular Art Deco lives)
The Popular Design Eras:
Victorian (1835-1900)
Reflected the love of a nation for its young queen and her love for her husband, Prince Albert. Romantic Period jewelry was very sentimental. It often reflected the new love of a young couple. Archaeological excavations of Ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian sites also fascinated people. The jewelry of the period often reflected designs inspired by these eras.
Edwardian (1900-1920)
Lacey, intricate, beautiful filigree diamonds took center stage, while colored gemstones played supporting roles. Some of the most popular styles include amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, garnet, moonstone, opal, pearl, peridot, ruby, and sapphire.
Art Deco (1920-1940) Hugely popular and often the go-to visual for "vintage ring" its origins in the die-cast machine age, is characterized by bold, geometric, symmetrical designs, sharp angles - lovely and linear embellishments with a miligrain flourish. Rings often accompanied by sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Travel became hugely popular during this time and influenced intricate motifs of Egyptian, African and the Orient and Native American decent. During the Great Depression, more affordable and attainable gems were the sought after alternatives: amethyst, citrine, garnet, and glass.
Retro (1940-1960+)
The end of the war combined with a perfectly timed ad campaign for diamonds introduced the diamond solitaire ring. This classic style lives on with its yellow and rose gold bands (platinum option was out due to war resources) These are heirloom rings to this day as many present day family matriarchs were given this style upon a soldier's return. It's very likely in your family jewelry box.
As the mid century moved forward and economies began to recover, the Hollywood glamour influence began. Lifestyle was reflected with costume (cocktail) pieces, lavish to wear, admired at social gatherings - these were an indicator of town vs country status. Jewels made of semi-precious materials also began to emerge and thus access to elegance at a more economic fare.
Your One of A Kind Ring is Waiting!
Here's what our amazing (longtime, trustworthy, amazing, reliable resident Experts) have in their incredible Estate & Vintage lines (also they keep some hidden so reach out and ask away - or better yet, combine all the eras with a custom design)
Shop Vintage/Estate HERE
True Bijoux
206 Sparks Street Shop Vintage/Estate HERE
Dixon Jewellers
71 1/2 Sparks Street
Shop Vintage/Estate HERE
Alyea's Jewellers
50 Sparks Street
Shop Vintage/Estate HERE
