Hot for 2013: Vintage Jewels

From the catwalks to the magazines to the streets, vintage jewelry is all the rage. It has been for the past few years. And the Diamond Exchange is definitely on trend.

1      1. Vintage Art Deco: Sophisticated and Cool

In 2012, Art Deco jewelry came back into vogue. The Roaring Twenties was such a heady time for   women. They had the vote, and many also had “mad money” to spend on fashion.  Their bold, exciting jewelry celebrated color and abstract patterns.

This amazing bracelet is composed of small plaques of hand-wrought platinum filigree, sparkling, near-flawless white diamonds, and rich blue sapphires. It’s an estate piece that Steward recently acquired.  

2.       Vintage Victorian: Symbolic and Sweet

Now, in 2013, it’s all about Victorian-era jewelry. That includes cameos, which were popularized by Queen Victoria herself. These exquisite small plaques can be carved of hard stone, coral, or shell. Some are portraits of actual people; others depict figures or scenes from classical myths.

This is one of several estate cameos we have here in the shop. Some long-ago craftsman carved it out of conch shell and set it in a delicate frame of 10k yellow gold that allows it to be worn either as a pin or a pendant.

3.       Steward’s Designs: Where Part and Future Meet

Our owner, Steward Gibboney IV, is often inspired by vintage style when creating his own designs.

There are many Art Deco elements in this white gold ring, which Steward set with diamonds and a gorgeous blue topaz. The top of the ring features geometric shapes and a round center stone that’s bead set to look square. The shank of the ring is milgrained and pierced for a lacy, airy look. This piece was definitely a labor of love! 

Looking for a distinctive piece that has a story to tell? Stop by the Diamond Exchange and let us turn you on to vintage.