Unique Estate Jewelry Fosters Fond Memories

When it comes to estate jewelry, the desire to find special statements—as well as the care and creativity that goes into accessorizing them—comes from the heart. Some jewelry lovers find a piece that arouses endearing memories and feelings of nostalgia when their original roots are revealed, transporting the new owner to another time and place. Picture it: someone passes a jewelry shop window and spots a piece that strikes an emotional chord. It's so captivating that it doesn't matter if it matches their current wardrobe or not; there is no hesitation about making it theirs. (Or better yet, it's a serendipity piece that magically complements something in their closet. Meant to be!) Now in the hands of someone new, the bygone treasure becomes a beacon of stylish inspiration with a deep connection to the past, ready for a new future.

Unique and memorable, each piece of estate jewelry holds within it the spirit of a time and place that is either disappearing or already gone by, which gives it a special, one-of-a-kind appeal that differs from mass-produced, contemporary jewelry that is easier to acquire.

Estate jewelry encompasses over a century of various designs and each piece stands on its own—a fabulous choice for those who identify with an original sense of style. For example, a woman who enjoys putting together a vintage outfit to wear to a Broadway show may very well be interested in acquiring a vintage pearl necklace to pair with her gorgeous ensemble, instantly uplifting her distinct look with an intriguing piece of jewelry to match.

Estate Jewelry: Sentimental. Unique. Collectible.

Unique estate jewelry can have a deep connection to sentimentality because it has the power to transport the wearer with its meaningful origins when compared to more modern jewelry that's often driven by trend alone. Each estate piece is a wearable work of art; a time capsule that evokes strong feelings and vivid memories—whether through reminiscing on favorite places from the past, calling to mind unforgettable milestones from one's life, reflecting on family traditions or honoring the chapters of a love story.

Jewelers and collectors spend a great deal of time and energy tracking down unique jewelry. Then one day, a customer recognizes the style of an antique piece of jewelry and attributes it to her own memories or the stories she's been told. She knows it's from the Old World and it instantly reminds her of her great-grandmother, who always wore a brooch on special occasions. Perhaps, it's a cut diamond vintage engagement ring that looks just like the one that belonged to her beloved aunt, specially designed for the cherished moment when she said, "Yes!" Or a Valentine's Day present, an antique heart-shaped 18kt gold promise ring that a soldier might have given his sweetheart before he left to travel overseas, never to return.

Sentimental jewelry is something to hold dear. It honors relationships with pieces that hold secrets and tell stories of joy, like a wonderful locket necklace with photos of loved ones inside, or sometimes sorrow, like a mourning pin. Some wearers can "read" the energy of an antique wedding band or an Edwardian brooch. Words can barely describe the feeling, but the owner is conscious of its roots and now has the opportunity to treasure such a piece and add to its storied history with memories of their own.

Whenever you browse for vintage or antique jewelry, discovering and choosing the right piece is a fascinating and rewarding challenge. Let's say you lay eyes on a pair of vintage rose gold earrings and a tidal wave of emotions hits your inner core, where you instantly make a connection to a family member, an important time in your life or a memory from years gone by.

Because of this evocative quality, unique estate jewelry is well worth collecting. Since artisans crafted antique and vintage pieces during periods where symbolism was often used in art, every flower, leaf, gemstone and color could hold a special meaning that the artist intended to convey to the wearer.

To own such sentimental items is a fulfilling experience, whether you hold these cherished pieces as keepsakes or wear them on special occasions. Moreover, if you know the history of the piece, adding it to an outfit makes the item all the more endearing. Your style begins to tell a story—a sapphire necklace and matching earrings suddenly come alive as something more and make a very special, singular statement.

Estate Jewelry: Individual Style and Distinction

When we think back to the woman who loves wearing vintage dresses to attend a Broadway show, we make a natural connection to the singular, distinct designs found in estate jewelry and how well-suited they would be to her style. Her friends and family likely know her taste, so when they see a piece of heirloom jewelry while shopping, they'll almost certainly think of her and consider how much she'd like it. Perhaps they'd even purchase it for her as a special gift.

But how else does one select a piece of estate jewelry? Some collectors start by selecting the type of metal they like best, such as silver, gold or platinum - which are all commonly used in vintage jewelry. Platinum is more expensive, gold can be slightly less and silver is the most affordable, though it does require regular care to remain bright and beautiful. For those on a budget, gold-plating is a common technique that gives the appearance of gold over a base metal for a much lower price.

Another way to start your search is by choosing a piece from a historical period that interests you. If Retro or Modern eras are your forte, you'll have an easier time finding unique estate jewelry. The oldest items originate from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Nouveau eras, which prove to be harder to find, and thus, more expensive.

Perhaps you don't have any specific preferences. That's fine, too! You can simply shop and browse until something strikes your fancy, like a pair of wedding bands that give you an instant feeling of warm sentimentality when you think of how perfect they'd be for your upcoming wedding.

Even when starting with a blank canvas, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how many connections you're still able to make with so many beautiful pieces. As you continue your search, here are a few eras that merit consideration:

• Eye-catching designs from the Art Deco or Art Nouveau eras that integrate beautiful cultural elements and motifs from Asia or the Middle East.
• Somber, sophisticated pieces from older eras, like a Victorian-era mourning pin, can add a quiet elegance to an understated outfit or a formal evening gown.
• If whimsical or big, flashy jewelry is what you love, consider browsing through Retro-era items that convey the spirit of Old Hollywood movie stars who often wore dazzling accessories.
• Those who like colorful pieces that express individuality and a carefree style should look to the Modern era where they may find beautiful brooches and pendants of birds with emerald eyes or butterflies with sapphire wings.

Pro Tip: Since heirloom jewelry is pre-owned and pre-loved, it could have a scratch or minor damage, so you should always check over the item carefully to decide if you can look past its imperfections, or would prefer to inquire about the cost of repair, before making a purchase. While a few scratches should not stop you from passing up a special, sentimental piece, you should always be aware of the item's condition to make an informed decision.