Jewelry which is described as "vintage" includes many different periods. The styles of each period are defined by the manufacturing technology available and the skill of the stone cutters of the era. The major antique jewelry periods include Georgian, Early Victorian, mid Victorian, late Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco & Retro.

Georgian jewelry (1714-1837)

Georgian era jewelry is handmade & the quality of each piece will be variable. High quality Georgian jewelry is very rare. This period features nature inspired designs often using leaves & birds & jewelers frequently included precious stones in their designs.

Early Victorian - romantic jewelry (1837-1850)

The designs of this period are similar to Georgian pieces in that they feature nature inspired designs which were delicately & intricately etched or engraved into gold. Lockets & brooches were predominantly worn during the day whereas colored gemstones and diamonds were worn mostly during the evening.

Mid Victorian - grand jewelry (1860-1880)

This era corresponded with the death of Queen Victoria’s husband which led to more solemn and grave designs. Known as mourning jewelry; the pieces feature heavy, dark stones. Jet, onyx, amethyst, and garnet was were also utilized a lot during this period. At the same time; jewelry became especially creative during this period with more colorful designs featuring shells, mosaics and colorful gemstones.

Late Victorian - aesthetic jewelry (1885-1900)

The Late Victorian or Aesthetic period saw jewelers increasing use of diamonds and bright colored gemstones such as sapphire, peridot, and spinel. Star and crescent designs as well as elaborate hat pins were very popular fashion statements.

Arts and crafts jewelry (1894-1923)

The Industrial Revolution inspired many jewelry designers to rebel during the Arts and Crafts movement with a return to intricate jewelry designs and handmade craftsmanship. It was common for jewelry of this era to be simple in pattern and made of colorful uncut stones.

Art Nouveau jewelry (1895-1915)

This period was largely influenced by designer Rene Jules Lalique in France and other jewelers like J.E. Caldwell in America. Art Nouveau jewelry features natural designs such as flowers and butterflies and there was a profusion of beautifully colored enamel pieces during this period.

Edwardian jewelry (1901-1910)

The Edwardian period started with the death of Queen Victoria and the subsequent coronation of her son Edward. During this period expensive gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies were set in elaborate and highly fashionable designs.

Art Deco jewelry (1920-1935)

This era was heavily influenced by African, Egyptian and Japanese themes. Art Deco jewelry is famous for its geometric designs, sharp lines, and bright colors. Bakelite, celluloid, vitreous enamel and doublets were frequently used during this era. Necklaces were long and women wore multiple bracelets at the same time. Amber and murano beads were popular and chokers were a fashionable contrast to lengthy necklaces.

Retro jewelry (1940s)

Inspired by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood; Retro jewelry is colorful, bold and elaborate. Large cocktail rings were a staple item as well as bold bracelets, watches and necklaces.