What is estate jewlery?
Although "estate jewelry" technically refers to all pieces that have been previously owned, we are talking about jewelry dating from the middle of the 19th century on.
Mid and Late Victorian Period: 1850-1890
During Queen Victoria's reign, Great Britain became a major jewelry center. Jeweled adornment became more widespread, due to the middle class, a by-product of the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution granted people the ability to mine precious metals and gemstones and to mass produce jewelry.
The romantic image of the young queen and her beloved consort, Prince Albert, influenced styles of her early and mid-reign. Seed pearls, shell cameos, strands of pearls and small colored stones such as garnets, amethysts and topaz were fashionable. Prince Albert's death in 1861 ushered in a drastic and somber change in style. Typical materials were jet, black onyx, and tortoise shell set in heavy gold.
Edwardian Period: 1901-1914
The Edwardian period saw a return to sumptuousness and elegance. Jewelry was now a fashion statement and was used to compliment the ladies' laces, silks and feathers. Diamonds and pearls were enormously popular and platinum was the metal of choice. Delicate filigree work resembling lace was a hallmark of this period.
Art Nouveau: 1890-1915
By the end of the century, a daring counter-cultural art movement called Art Nouveau replaced Victorian sobriety and conservativeness. Trademark Art Nouveau pieces included dragonflies, peacocks, and other nature symbols. French designer Rene Lalique was at the forefront of the Art Nouveau jewelry movement, utilizing ivory, horn, carved glass and enamel. Gemstones like opals and moonstones were often used.
Art Deco: 1920-1935
The dreamy and ethereal other-worldliness of Art Nouveau was classed and sassed up a bit during the Modern era. Art Deco exploded on the scene at the same time that women were bobbing their hair and invoking the flamboyant styles of Art Deco. Bold designs and colors were popular during the Art Deco period: Colored stones, coral, lapis lazuli and jade were often mixed together.
Retro Period: 1935-1949
The prominence of Hollywood stars influenced the style of jewelry pre and post WWII. Large stones and oversized pieces were in vogue. Yellow gold became the metal of choice once again and was considered beautiful enough for standalone necklaces and brooches. Other alloys, like green and rose gold, were also trendy.
