Previously owned jewelry is a joy to own on so many levels. It can round out your collection with styles that are no longer being made. It can add some vintage flair to your wardrobe or infuse it with modern pieces that need a new home. You might even be looking for that special item to serve as the “something old” in your bridal ensemble.

Many estate finds are unique, with elements such as old mine cut diamonds, romantic filigree designs, and period style characteristics that make them stand apart from more modern pieces. Some are signed pieces from elite jewelry houses like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, and others are simply fine examples of jewelry from various eras by unknown makers. There are distinctions to be made between estate, antique, and vintage, as well as demarcations between periods, including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Retro.

ESTATE simply means the jewelry has had a previous owner. Pre-owned jewelry could be from any era; it could be antique or close to brand-new. The word estate has its origins from a time when pre-owned jewelry was part of an estate, implying the previous owner is deceased. Now it simply means pre-owned.

ANTIQUE jewelry refers to pieces that are over 100 years old. Some antique jewelry is made to extremely high standards, crafted at a time when generally only the very wealthy could buy jewelry. Other pieces are quite delicate and in need of restoration if they are to be worn safely.

When jewelry is between 50 and 100 years old, it is classified as VINTAGE. For example, jewelry from the ’60s and early ’70s is now considered vintage.

The world of estate jewelry is vast and varied and full of pleasant surprises. It is full of possibilities for great ways to boost your jewelry wardrobe.