Endless talk of all things sparkly.

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Glimpse into the Past: Drop Earrings & Pearl Choker

Drop earrings and a pearl choker--a classic combination, seen here on Katharine Cornell circa 1930s. I like how her necklace showcases a large, bezel set Mabe pearl, rather than just being a plain strand.  The drop earrings in the photo feature three pearls, graduating in size.  Below are some choices that would allow you to mimic this look! This vintage pearl necklace is so alluring, with its triple strands and eye-catching center piece. That central decor is comprised of 18k yellow gold and a large Mabe pearl. This piece is from the 1950s from Fay Cullen, price: $2600. Love the charm of these drop earrings. Although the inspiration photo features three somewhat large pearls in the drop, these earrings are done on more of a smaller scale. They still are gorgeous--done in platinum and 18k yellow gold. There is a pearl at the top and three diamonds below, all same sizes. The buttercup settings on the diamonds are just so adorable. From Lang Antiques, price: $2950. Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Sail Away with Tiffany & Co.’s Vintage Nautical Bracelets

Photo taken by FrizzText These sunny, warm days of September make me want to sail away on a beautiful sailboat off into the sunset. Jewelry has a heavy nautical influence, anything from boat charms, to sailing knots, to the marine link. I've pointed out some trendy knot motifs in rings, and even our Charity Bracelet is designed with a special sailing knot in order for it to be adjustable. These bracelets are all designed by Tiffany & Co. from the early 1990s, and can be purchased at Beladora. Set sail in style with this charming Tiffany "Sailboats" signed designer bangle. This estate designer bracelet is crafted in 18k yellow gold, featuring a fleet of sailboats, inset with mother of pearl and malachite sails atop shimmering lapis waters. This estate signed designer bracelet is approximately 1 1/8 inches wide and retailed for $6,625.00 in 1992. Beladora's price: $4850 This 18k yellow gold marine link bracelet features lapis along with the bright, high polished gold signed by Tiffany & Co. The bracelet measures 7.5 inches and retailed for $4200 in 1993. Beladora's price: $3250 I think this bangle has such a beautiful pattern which mimics the ocean's waves. The classic 18k yellow gold signed designer bangle has a wave-like pattern created with inlaid mother of pearl, alternating with lapis. This bracelet originally retailed for $4,675.00 in 1992. Beladora's price: $3650 These make me want to scream, I'M ON A BOAT! Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Paris Hotel Boutique’s Vintage Stacking Rings

Whenever I'm on the hunt, checking out antique shops, flea markets or eBay, I usually look for pieces that seem unique to me.  Designs that I've never seen before or are classic to its time period stand out to me.  These stacking rings from Paris Hotel Boutique may be something I would glance over and not realize their potential.  I am now going to be on the lookout for bands like this to create a look like the one shown.  I've declared my love for bands before and did I mention how amazing the prices are for these?  Paris Hotel has prices that range from $110-350 on these rings (sold individually), that's like insider VIP discount pricing! Read More

Shop My Picks

ShopGemGossip.com

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Family Heirlooms: Contributed by Valerie & Vickie Killeen

Valerie from BLEACHBLACK posted a photo of her mother's, Vickie's, wedding ring and we had to know more! So here is her story... The following is contributed by Vickie Killeen: "I've always loved faux bois jewelry, and how it mimics nature. I was lucky to have found this setting at all, especially after I left the original inspiration ring miles away in Sausalito. Those were the days before internet capability. So, my patient fiancee and I went to a local jewelry store, and searched through 25 catalogs of yawn-inducing, traditional ring settings, and, there it was! It might have been the exact design, but even if it was slightly different, it was the same unique, branch style, entwined to form a diamond engagement ring, with a precisely fitted band to complete a full setting. That was 34 years ago, and it’s something I just glance at every day, but I love it like the first day, because it’s different than any I’ve ever seen" --Vickie Killeen Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Vintage Trend: Lovebirds

Photo taken by lempel_zev Not sure where that saying "two lovebirds" came from, in reference to two people in love, but it is quite endearing. And anytime birds are cuddling rather than dive bombing people is a moment worth noting. Can't say birds are my favorite creature, but they sure make great appearances in vintage jewelry. There are so many vintage pieces that feature all sorts of breeds--eagles, lovebirds, swallows, flamingos--but my favorite are the doves. Doves are the image of everlasting love and fidelity as they mate for a lifetime. When one passes, the surviving dove will remain alone for the duration of its life; it will never seek another mate. Such a pretty band, with the lovebirds almost camouflaged within the gold. This is a French Victorian piece from the 19th century. The band is crafted in 18k yellow gold, from The Three Graces. These little guys are so cute, especially their little turquoise bellies. This bird necklace is from the 1950s, done in 14k yellow gold. Each lovebird has ruby eyes. Price: $1702 from Broken English. These lovebirds are found on a brooch circa 1880, of Belgian origin. They are mainly etched, with seed pearl bodies, done in 18k yellow gold. Price: $357 from Adin. Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Antique Rings at Erie Basin

Erie Basin gets it right everytime. This photo is honestly all of my best dreams combined into one. And, is it a coincidence that the signet ring features the letter D? Owner Russell Whitmore just got back from an antiquing trip, which only means some great, unique pieces will soon be at his shop, with some online. Erie Basin  ♦  388 Van Brunt St. Brooklyn, NY 11231  ♦  718-554-6147 Read More