The term estate jewelry refers to jewelry which has been previously owned by another person before it reaches its current owner. Usually that kind of jewelry is characterized by a combination of sophisticated design with exquisite workmanship - and will definitely not be a piece you will be seeing others wear.

Estate jewelry carries so much meaning and history within them that render it a one-of-a-kind story. It could have belonged to members of nobility or even celebrities, but either way, there’s a whole lot of background behind it which can’t be found in new items for sale, not even in the fanciest jewelers nowadays.

Estate jewelry has become increasingly popular for those seeking originality and uniqueness, something extremely hard to find in pieces you would simply find at your local store. Besides, it usually dates from ancient times and this is reflected in its style and typical higher quality.

They are more durable and usually well-kept - especially in cases in which they haven’t been worn-down due to very little use by their previous owners. Now, let’s take a look at the most important kinds of estate jewelry and the differences between them: antique and vintage estate jewelry. That way, you’ll have a better sense of which to get.

This kind of jewelry is attributed to King Edward’s rule in England and explored fragility and graceful designs, which resulted in a lacy effect of delicate metalwork. Elegance and lightness were key, and pearls and platinum were frequently used. In addition, bows, moons, hearts, stars, scrolls, and flowers were often depicted in Edwardian jewelry.

This jewelry coincides with the Edwardian Era at the turn of the century and sometimes extends up to the outbreak of World War I in 1914. Its designs explore fragility with graceful curves, resulting in a lacy effect of light metalwork that seemed to make jewelry float, just as its many diamonds, and milgrain patterns did.

In sharp contrast with the Art Deco style, Art Nouveau showcases jewelry in organic shapes and curves such as leaves and petals, depicting delicate shapes of fairies, insects, and flowers. Pastel colors achieved with enamel are found in almost all pieces, and aquamarines, opals and moonstones replaced diamonds and darker shade gems.