Vintage Jewelry Styles
Learn About Vintage Jewelry with Rumanoff’s Jewelry
Many eras of influence fall under the banner of “vintage” in luxury jewelry, each characterized by distinctive features that arose from their unique contexts. Our experts at Rumanoff’s Jewelry have put together a guide to various eras of influence and the characteristics one will find in jewelry from or inspired by them.
Georgian Era
The Georgian era spans from 1714 to 1837, a time when jewelry-making was an incredibly labor-intensive process. While it is rare to find jewelry forged during this period, pieces influenced by the Georgian era are often characterized by intricate metal work, such as elaborate scrolls and nature-inspired motifs.
Victorian Era
This moniker refers to the period of Queen Victoria’s reign. Jewelry from this era possessed a more lighthearted and whimsical air. Diamonds became more accessible, so images of mythical creatures, flowers, animals, and crescent moons were brightly sparkling with the jewels. Pieces from this era were typically large, bold, and eye-catching.
Art Nouveau
Pale, muted colors, organic lines, and sumptuous curves characterized much of the jewelry produced in the Art Nouveau period. It is said that during this time, the design was more important than the materials, so materials such as ivory and enamel were used to create fresh, unexpected accessories.
Edwardian
With the Edwardian era came a rise in the popularity of dainty, detailed jewelry. Jewelry at this time was primarily wrought in platinum as advances in the fabrication of this valuable metal arose. Most jewelry from and influenced by this era also features milgrain detailing, a technique achieved by adding tiny spheres of metal to the edges of jewelry, creating visual dynamism and exciting texture.
Art Deco
From 1920 to 1930, art began to take a very different direction. The bright colors of Fauvism and the striking geometric shapes of cubism heavily influence the jewelry of this era. Symmetrical geometric designs and starkly contrasting colors result in wonderfully dramatic and glamorous pieces.
Retro
Jewelry from the 1930s and 40s resembles that of the Art Deco era but brings a bit more dimension, utilizing mostly bright yellow gold and sterling silver. Chunky and futuristic and typically inlaid with only one or two large stones, accessories from this period were wonderfully bold and daring.
Shop Vintage Jewelry at Rumanoff’s Jewelry
At Rumanoff’s Jewelry, our customers will always find an incredibly vast and varied selection of designer jewelry, including collections influenced by eras passed. Our Hamden jewelry store is staffed with experienced and amiable personnel whose joy it would be to inform you of the various ages of vintage jewelry and guide you through our carefully curated inventory. Contact us today for more information on our products and services.
