Vintage Jewellery: Their Character and Value Proposition

Vintage jewellery as a distinct jewellery category can be understood by identifying certain factors that characterise them. As the name implies relates to jewels that carry the element of age, which is perceived as an element that adds value to the jewel. For something to be considered ‘vintage’, the item in question needs to have stood the test of time. In addition to containing stylistic elements which set it apart from products in the same category. When it comes to this product category the jewels in question are those which stand the test of time and are valued for possessing certain distinct characteristics in terms of band design, gemstone placements, gemstone number, metal colour and other combinations etc. So the next question when it comes to identifying a jewellery item as vintage is how much time? This is an interesting question since this type of jewellery often tends to get confused with antique jewellery, which is a distinct product category. The key difference between vintage and antique jewellery is that the latter must be older than 100 years old. Vintage jewellery on the other hand is less than 100 years old, but in terms of its age, and depending on the jeweller in question maybe 20-30 years old at the lower end, going up to 50 years. In addition to the element of age, the next key factor here is role inspiration. This takes us to the next point to consider when going for this jewellery type.

Why Buy Vintage Jewellery

Choosing to go with vintage styles comes down to a number of factors. In addition to possessing jewellery designs that are from a different time, that possess a style that is distinct and that carries with it the value of time. Hence it is difficult to really pinpoint the many reasons for which people choose to go for vintage jewellery. However, when picking this jewellery item, there are some common factors that affect this decision:

Value

When buying vintage jewels, depending on the jewel in question, its value proposition might be higher in relation to purchasing a brand new jewel. However, the value factor would depend on the vintage jewel in question. Since there are certain vintage jewels that command a high price owing to their rarity, in addition to other factors like the presence of gemstones. Vintage jewellery is a good option for those who are seeking jewels that are older and cheaper in comparison to brand new jewels, whilst controlling for other factors like rarity and perceived value.

Rarity

Purchasing vintage jewellery can also be determined by the want to possess jewels that are hard to come by. As jewels that are from a different time and carry a certain distinction. Whilst the economic value and recognition of the vintage jewel is likely to vary, what sets this category of jewels apart is the difficulty in finding good quality vintage jewels. Since there are a number of sellers in the market for this type of jewels, in addition to numerous online stores that claim to specialise in vintage and antique jewellery, getting hold of quality vintage jewels, especially those novel jewels which remain stylish to this day. Hunting quality vintage jewels is a pass time for certain jewellery seekers, who search for quality jewels that match their own criteria of value. However things are beginning to change, today this jewellery type, whilst not necessarily old in terms of years, carry a style based character of time.

Vintage Jewellery: The Role of Inspiration

In the world today getting your hands on fine jewellery for a competitive price, those that meet high standards when it comes to design, craftsmanship, gemstones, in addition to the factors that work into the ethics of business can prove to be a complex process. Hence there are a lot of factors that potential buyers need to consider when it comes to vintage jewellery, as these factors need to be combined with the element of authenticity of design in this category of products. However knowing if the jewel you wish to purchase qualifies in terms of its origins and longevity, can be difficult. In addition to the sparsity of authentic vintage jewels that go back decades, but also maintain their quality and are affordable for even high paying buyers. Since those who are seeking quality and affordable vintage designs may not always be able to find jewellery items that fit the required specifications in terms of price and quality, raises the question over its supply. One way this matter is addressed by the jewellery industry bring jewellery has been to introduce jewels which are inspired by famous designs of the past decades: From those worn by celebrities of yesteryear to royalty. Jewellers who possess a solid collection in this range, seek to reproduce the designs of top jewels of the decades past. Whilst they may not necessarily be ‘vintage’ in terms of age, their value comes down to the quality of the design that captures the vintage character of the time the jewel is from. This brings us to the next key addition to this process: Customisation.

Custom Vintage Jewellery

Fine vintage jewellery comes in many varieties. In principle most popular jewellery types: rings, necklaces, bracelets chains etc. Can be found under this category. Since jewellers are generally not in possession of a vast inventory of vintage jewels, a common practice is to meet customer demand who wish to possess unique jewellery designs, such as those that go back decades into the past, to produce custom vintage jewels that have been inspired by classics of old. So if what you have in mind is an engagement ring inspired by those one worn by the likes of Grace Kelly, or the engagement ring worn by Jacqueline Kennedy, with the right jeweller, this wish may become a reality. With time and dedication, we will work to make your desired vintage jewel a reality. Whilst some might argue that calling vintage jewellery that is custom made takes away the authenticity of the item. The reality when it comes to the market for this product dictates otherwise. The growing demand for these jewels means that not everyone is able to get hold of a vintage jewel that matches customer expectations in terms of design, age and everyday use. Thus the primary measure that determines a jewel as ‘vintage’ is the distinct character of its design and style, one that is characteristic of the age in which it arose; and the best vintage jewellers are those who are able to capture that spirit and make it real.

Choosing a Jeweller for Vintage Jewellery

When it comes to choosing vintage jewellery, it may interest you to know that jewels in this category come in an array of styles: with vintage styles that match the designs of conventional fine jewellery types. So vintage styles such as vintage engagement rings, vintage pendants, including vintage light pendants; vintage necklaces, and even vintage wedding rings can also be found under this category. Keeping in mind the principle of inspiration, this variety of vintage jewels may not always fit the age factor, however, their design language is one that is made to match the respective eras from which they are taken. The key here is to know what you want. For in addition to finding jewels that live up to the standards of inspired vintage jewels from old, the designs that you choose must get the fundamentals of quality jewellery crafting right. Good jewellery designers contain product categories that are expansive. In addition to vintage styles; jewellers are able to provide quality engagement rings, wedding rings, key chain necklaces, earrings etc. Jewellery that fit within the conventional, modern styles is better placed to provide solid vintage styles. Unless you are dealing with a jeweller who specialises solely in providing quality vintage jewels. the provider is one who is able to provide conventional fine jewellery offerings that are made with optimal quality, which positively impacts the ability to service the market for vintage jewels.