Estate Jewelry
At Seattle Diamonds we have curated a fine collection of Old European, Old Mine and Rose Cut diamonds as well as vintage jewelry from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco era. Our estate collection has been expertly refinished, independently appraised and authenticated. Additional estate and vintage pieces available upon request.
Antique Rings
Antique rings are those made over 100 years ago. Rings from this era include the Victorian and Edwardian periods (the mid 1800’s to 1916). Antique rings have more of a delicate nature but when cared for properly will last many lifetimes.
Vintage Rings
Vintage rings are those made any time in the last 100 years. Vintage typically refers to those that are at least 20-30 years old and includes rings from the Art Deco, Retro and Modern eras (1915 – the late 1960’s).
Vintage-Inspired Rings
Vintage rings are those made any time in the last 100 years. Vintage typically refers to those that are at least 20-30 years old and includes rings from the Art Deco, Retro and Modern eras (1915 – the late 1960’s).
Art Nouveau: 1890-1915
Free flowing lines and natural motifs inspired by the decorative arts movement are indicative of the Art Nouveau jewelry. A type of enameling called “plique a jour” was perfected during this short-lived time, which resulted in creation of some of the most sought after jewelry in the world.
Edwardian: 1900-1915
Elegant and sophisticated jewelry showcasing high-quality gems and precious metals for Europe’s upper class. During this time, metal fabrication advanced to allow the use of Platinum for jewelry, which allowed for more intricate and detail in pieces, including the use of milgraining, a small border of metal beads set around a stone or along the edge of a ring. Pieces were typically light and delicate set with as many diamonds as possible.
Art Deco: 1915-1935
The end of the war and beginning of the “Roaring 20’s” encouraged people to live life to the fullest. Jewelry production that had previously been halted started anew with an emphasis on straight and linear geometric designs with caliber cut emeralds, rubies and sapphires added into pieces for a splash of color. White gold became a popular alternative to platinum as a means of cost savings and jewelry houses like Tiffany & Co, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arples and Harry Winston gained notoriety.
Retro: 1935-1950
The jewelry market did not regain its footing from the stock market crash of 1929 and subsequent Great Depression until the late 1930’s. Pieces from this era are hallmarked by high polish yellow, rose and green gold as well as the use of large emerald cut gemstones accented by ribbons, bows, flowers and even animals. As during World War I, platinum became scare during World War II and white gold took over as the metal of choice.
Modern: 1950’s
Jewelry from the 1950’s reflected a time of post-war economic growth. Additionally, in 1948, DeBeers launched their infamous “Diamonds Are Forever” slogan, which greatly increased the demand for diamonds. Jewelry from this period is marked by flashy and dramatic settings with braiding and rope engraving used as a design element.
