Antique Jewelry

Much like jewelry of the Georgian era, Victorian era jewelry is inspired by nature in its designs. In most cases early Victorian era designs are delicately and intricately etched into gold. Items like Lockets and brooches become very popular during the era.  Colored gemstones and diamonds are some of the most popular forms of jewelry worn by Royals and a those select people with an eye for fine detail. During...

Orange blossom jewelry is one of the finest vintage jewelry from the era of Queen Victoria. In that era, orange blossom jewelry was a popular choice for rings and wedding bands for brides as well as wedding rings for grooms. Like any other vintage piece of jewelry, blossom jewelry has an interesting background story that explains its value and the reason behind its popularity.  Before we dig deep into the...

Van Cleef & Arpels, most well-known for their inspired designs, their revolutionary gem setting procedure known as the Mystery Setting and perfumes, was founded in 1906. Esther Arpels, daughter of a precious stones dealer, Soloman Arpels, married Alfred Van Cleef in 1886. Alfred Van Cleef and his brother-in-law, Charles, founded a jewelry business, trademarked the name and opened their first boutique at 22 place Vendome in 1906. Esther’s brothers, Saloma,...

Cartier is known for its fine jewelry and watch manufacturing. It was founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis Francois Cartier. It was later operated by his son, Alfred Cartier, and in 1874 by Alfred’s sons Louis, Pierre and Jacques.The first wrist watch was designed in 1907. It was a flat watch with a unique square bezel containing a Jaeger movement. The watch was called the Santos and is still...