Design & Historical Context |
Vintage jewelry refers to jewelry that was produced a certain number of years ago, typically at least 20 years or more. It is often characterized by its unique style, craftsmanship, and use of materials that are no longer in production or are hard to find.
Vintage jewelry can be made from a wide variety of materials, including gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds, as well as less precious materials such as costume jewelry or Bakelite. It can be influenced by a variety of styles and movements, including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Retro.
One of the key features of vintage jewelry is its uniqueness and individuality. Unlike modern jewelry, which is often mass-produced, vintage jewelry is often one-of-a-kind or part of a limited production run. This makes it highly collectible and sought after by collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
Vintage jewelry is often associated with a sense of history and nostalgia, and it can be a way to connect with the past and appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of earlier periods. It is highly collectible and can be found at vintage stores, antique shops, and online marketplaces.
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Materials & Craftsmanship |
Brilliant-cut diamond
The round brilliant cut is a type of diamond cut that was developed in the early 1900s and is now the most popular and widely used diamond cut. It is characterized by a circular girdle and 58 facets, which are small, flat surfaces that are cut into the diamond to create a specific shape and enhance its sparkle and brilliance. Unlike the old European cut, the round brilliant cut does not have a culet (the bottom edge of the diamond).
The round brilliant cut was designed to maximize the fire and brilliance of a diamond, and it has become the standard cut for diamonds. It is known for its bright, sparkling appearance and is often used in engagement rings and other high-end jewelry. The round brilliant cut became prevalent during the Art Deco and Retro periods and is still widely used today.
Round brilliant cut diamonds are typically more expensive than diamonds with other cuts because they require more labor and material to produce. However, they are considered the highest quality and most desirable type of diamond cut, and they are a popular choice for those who want the highest level of sparkle and brilliance in their jewelry.
Enamel
Enameling is a decoration technique in which a glass of certain composition is fused to the surrounding or under laying metal. Although the exact origins are unknown, the art of enamelling has been practiced since ancient times. The favor of adorning jewelry with bright colors has always existed and the use of glass created colors which nature – in the form of gemstones – could not provide for in ancient times. Excavations on Cyprus – in the Mediterranean – in the 1950's brought cloisonné enameled jewelry to the surface which dates from the 13th and 11th century BC. These are, to date, the earliest enameled items found in this particular technique.
14k
14k gold is a popular choice for use in jewelry because it is durable, yet still relatively affordable compared to higher karat golds like 18k or 24k. It is made up of 58.5% pure gold and is mixed with other metals to make it harder and more durable. 14k gold is available in a range of colors, including yellow, white, and rose, and is commonly used in a variety of jewelry pieces such as rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. One of the advantages of 14k gold is that it is more resistant to wear and tear than pure gold, which makes it suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still softer than other alloys such as stainless steel or platinum, so it may require more maintenance to keep it looking its best. Overall, 14k gold is a popular choice for those who want the look and feel of gold, but at a more affordable price point.
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