What Are Vintage Jewelry Styles?
18 Jun 2025
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So here’s the deal: I was never “into” jewelry as a kid. My grandma, though, she had this glass box—always dusty—full of things that glittered in the weirdest light. Some were bent, some didn’t match. When I finally asked her about it, she shrugged and said, “That’s all old stuff. You’ll want it when you’re older.” And, annoyingly, she was right.
Vintage? What Does That Even Mean?
Let’s get this out of the way: “vintage” is a word people throw around when they want to sound fancy, but mostly it means “not new and not yet antique.” Is there a rulebook? I wish. If it feels like it belongs in another decade—your mom’s chunky rings, your uncle’s gold chain from the 80s, or that brooch you found in a coat pocket at a thrift store—it’s probably vintage enough.
Why Bother With Old Jewelry?
I guess, for me, it’s half about the look and half about the story. Sometimes a clasp is fiddly in a way that tells you “someone had time to make this by hand.” Sometimes you find a piece and you just know it danced through a smoky bar or sat quietly at a wartime wedding. (Or maybe I read too many novels?)
Okay, but the “Eras”—Do They Matter?
Sure. But also… not really? I mean, yes, it’s cool to know a ring is Georgian or a brooch is Art Nouveau, but honestly, I just pick what makes me happy.
Still, here’s a five-second “eras for dummies” crash course because people like lists:
Georgian:
Looks like someone made jewelry with candlelight and patience. Think flowery, chunky, gold, foiled stones (I had to Google that).
Victorian
Lockets and hair and sentimental stuff. Sometimes a little weird, sometimes weirdly romantic.
Edwardian
All about lace and platinum and stuff you imagine on Downton Abbey.
Art Nouveau
Imagine someone did jewelry while daydreaming about forests and mermaids.
Art Deco
Sharp, bold, “put on jazz and let’s party.”
Retro
Big, flashy, sometimes looks like it belongs in an old Hollywood film, sometimes looks like costume jewelry.
Why Do People Still Want This Stuff?
Here’s what I think: New jewelry is everywhere. Vintage stuff? It’s not mass-produced. Maybe it’s not even that expensive—but you won’t see it on five other people at brunch.
Also, if you like imagining your jewelry had a life before you… vintage is for you. (My favorite pin? I like to think it’s been to more places than I have.)
How Can You Tell It’s Vintage (or Just Old)?
Trust your gut. Sometimes you just know. If it’s heavy, if the back is weird, if the stone looks “off”—could be vintage. Sometimes there’s a tiny stamp or scratchy hallmark. Sometimes there’s nothing but a story you make up.
And sometimes, honestly, you buy a thing thinking it’s vintage and your friend tells you it’s from Target, circa 2008. It happens.
Does Vintage Mean Valuable?
Sometimes. More often, it just means cool and one-of-a-kind. But yes, certain makers, hallmarks, or gemstones—these can make things pricey.
But really, I just want something that feels like mine.
Care Tips? Sure
I’m lazy, so here’s what I actually do:
Wipe it with a t-shirt or soft cloth
Don’t wear it in the shower (unless you forget)
Don’t toss it in a drawer with keys (unless you’re like me, and then you’ll learn)
If it has stones, give it its own little pouch
Most importantly: Wear it out! Don’t leave it in a box “for a special day.” That day might as well be now.
Wrapping Up
If you’re still reading, you probably love the idea of jewelry that comes with stories. Or maybe you’re just bored at work (hey, I get it).
Anyway, vintage jewelry isn’t magic—it’s just special, and sometimes that’s enough.
Oh, and if you want to see what vintage-inspired (or real vintage) I’ve picked up lately, sanzenice is my go-to place to browse. No pressure, just sharing what makes me happy.
