Vintage vs Antique
I recently talked about jewellery eras and thought you may find it interesting to know the differences between vintage and antique jewellery. You may have inherited some pieces from parents or grandparents and wonder exactly what they would be classed as. So, here’s a simple guide!
Vintage Jewellery:
Typically refers to pieces that are at least 40 to 80 years old. This includes styles from the 1940’s to the 1980s.
Vintage jewellery encompasses styles such as very late Deco (1930s), Retro (1940s), Mid-Century Modern (1950s) and Modernist (1960s – 1970s). These pieces reflect the design trends and cultural influences of their time.
Vintage pieces often showcase high-quality craftsmanship and materials, including gold, platinum, and unusual precious gemstones. However, the quality can vary widely depending on the era and maker.
Antique Jewellery:
Is generally defined as pieces that are over 100 years old. This typically includes jewellery from periods such as the Georgian (1714-1830), Victorian (1837-1901), Edwardian (1901-1910), and Art Nouveau (1890-1910) eras as well as Art Deco (1920s).
Antique jewellery often features intricate designs and hand-crafted details. Common motifs include nature-inspired elements, filigree work, and the use of enamel. Each era has its own distinct characteristics; for example, Victorian jewellery often includes sentimental motifs like hearts and lockets, while Art Nouveau pieces are known for their flowing lines and organic shapes
Pieces that are antique are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials featuring rare gemstones and intricate metalwork.
While both vintage and antique jewellery can be valuable, antique jewellery is often more appealing due to its greater age, rarity, and historical significance. The unique hand-crafted nature of many antique pieces can make them more sought-after. However, high-quality vintage pieces, especially those from renowned designers or specific periods, can also be excellent investments and are growing in desirability.
Originally published in the Purbeck Gazette on 19th August 2024.
