Gesner Estate Jewelry provides the finest jewelry at the lowest price possible. We specialize in antique & vintage gold and platinum jewelry from the turn of the 20th century to the late 1930's; however, our inventory of newer pieces in gold and platinum are also unsurpassed. We maintain an inventory of several thousand unique items. Every piece is in wonderful condition and uncommon in design.
Showing posts with label art deco engagement rings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label art deco engagement rings. Show all posts
There are various styles of Antique Engagement Ringsthat people can choose from. Making the proper selection will depend on the particular look that one is attracted to and, of course, establishing budget parameters. Here are some examples of great styles of engagement rings thatGesner Estate Jewelrycan offer.
Edwardian Engagement Rings
Edwardian Engagement Rings were some of the most popular rings of the early 1900s. These rings offer a lace-like detail filigree that was cherished by ladies of the Edwardian era. These classical rings offer a sense of diversity and special appeal that is unique to the era. The Edwardian rings were usually delicate and very feminine.
Art Deco Engagement Rings
Art Deco Engagement Rings cover the time period between the 1920s and 1930s. Emeralds, Sapphires, and Rubies became very popular and were often used with diamonds to create the “look” of the Art Deco era. The Art Deco “look” often combines the influences of cubism, and geometric and angular design. They are equally popular with the Edwardian look and certain to be cherished for years to come. These rings are very hard to find and are still very much in high demand.
Victorian Jewelry (1837-1890)
Victorian Jewelry refers to the styles of jewelry that were fashionable during the reign of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Queen Victoria loved to wear jewelry. She was also very influential with women of her time and whatever caught her fancy turned into fashion. Victorian jewelry is as complex in its symbolism, sentiment, and design as the fashion, architecture, and decor of the time. Worn as an ornament, a love token, or a remembrance, both the costume and fine jewelry of the era not only completed the well-dressed lady’s attire but also denoted her position in society, her marital status, and her sense of self.
Retro Era (1940-1960)
The Retro Era was more well-known for its jewelry crafted in rose, yellow or green gold. Rings, for instance, were oversized and gemstones that were popular during that time were diamond, aquamarine, topaz, citrine, sapphire, and often synthetic ruby
Platinum Engagement Rings
Antique Platinum Engagement Rings are what we specialize in and our collection features a very large inventory of breathtaking craftsmanship, style and design.
Gesner Estate Jewelry offers the finest selection of quality vintage & antique engagement rings at great prices. Take the time to view all the options that we offer on our site and please contact us if you have any questions. Visit us at www.gesner.com for a true visual experience! We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your needs. (813)282-1008 or (727)586-6000
“Art Deco” as a term was coined in 1960 by art historian Bevis Hillier to describe the movement known as Style Moderne. The distinctive style of the 1920s and 30’s borrowed heavily from other Modernism movements of the time and was established as a distinct style by members of the French artist collective known as La Société des artistes décorateurs, following the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels held in Paris. Though birthed in France, Art Deco was almost entirely an American phenomenon, fueled by the decadence of “The Roaring Twenties.” The movement affected the decorative arts most profoundly, the commercial fields of architecture, graphic arts, industrial design, and jewelry design. The style is easily recognizable by the use of clean lines, trapezoidal shapes, stepped edges, and arched corners. Unlike the sinuous lines of Art Nouveau, Art Deco emphasized linearity and geometric form.
Art Deco .18ct. Diamond & 18K White Gold Antique Engagement – Fashion Ring
Artisans of Art Deco used symmetrical arrangements and repeated designs, often incorporating pyramids and stepped ziggurats. The movement was influenced by primitive motifs from ancient Aztec and Egyptian culture and tribal Africa. The discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1922 sparked a new craze for Egyptian design, reinterpreting earlier Egyptian revival pieces from the late 19th century following the opening of the Suez Canal. Artifacts discovered in the tomb were reproduced in jewelry form, notably glazed ceramic pieces depicting scarabs, amulets, and the face mask of King Tut. Large jewelry firms, such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier, imitated the Egyptian style with great success. Increased travel abroad and the visits of maharajahs to European cities fueled the interest in exotic motifs.
Jewelry of the period reflected the “architectural” and “industrial” influences. New Technology was referenced and employed in the making of jewelry. The movement sought to combine the relentless proliferation of mass production with the style and sensitivity of art and design. In 1927 Cartier introduced its “Mystery Clocks” which hid the mechanical movements of the gears and the hands of the clock appeared to float on top of the face. Gemstones were cut in geometric shapes and paired with contrasting colors to form a bold statement. Light-colored gemstones were set with dark materials such as black onyx and Bakelite, a type of early plastic. “White jewelry”, similar to the platinum and diamond designs of Edwardian jewelry, debuted at the 1929 Exhibition at the Palais Galliera in Paris and was hugely popular throughout the 1930s. Metals such as platinum, white gold, and silver were used for their white appearance and set with diamonds.
Art Deco .45ct. Diamond & Platinum Antique Engagement – Fashion Ring – J35243
Like the dramatic change in female clothing and hairstyles, jewelry pieces also changed in form and function. The elaborate matching sets and tiaras of Victorian times were out of style. Women wore long pendants, bold cocktail rings, multiple bangle bracelets, elaborately decorated accessories such as cigarette cases, and the double-clip brooch which could be worn together or taken apart and worn on lapels or belts.
The crash of 1929 greatly affected the progress of Art Deco. Jewelers innovatively incorporated less expensive materials such as Bakelite and coral or turquoise to create affordable jewelry for the mass market. As the Depression worsened and World War II broke out, Art Deco came to an end. An attempt was made to revive the style following the end of the war, but it never succeeded in producing the excitement or innovation Art Deco had inspired in the earlier decades. The Art Deco style has experienced multiple revivals in the past few decades and high-quality pieces of jewelry from the original period remain highly prized as collectibles.
Early Art Deco diamond engagement rings and jewelry were decorative and fancy in style with filigree which was often accented with synthetic sapphires or natural emeralds. Price was not a consideration when creating jewelry. Cocktail rings were in vogue. This was a time of high fashion and elegant style. Cocktail parties were the rage and everyone was trying to gracefully out do the other.
At the end of World War I, the Art Deco Period came into full force. Women had entered the workforce and were standing more and more on their own two feet becoming more self-reliant and passionate. With this new social order of prosperous people who thrived during the war, the Art Deco Period also known as the Roaring Twenties was off to a hearty start.
Coco Channel was known for its faux pearls and other jewelry during that time and, in fact, materials like plastic and paste were very popular when producing such vintage jewelry.
Egyptian Revival jewelry such as necklaces, for example, became more common after the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1923. Jewelry of the style boasted examples of serpents, pharaohs, and sphinxes in simple flat designs.
The Japanese also had an influence on Art Deco Jewelry and fashion. Carvings of jade and coral were carved in bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Oriental garden scenes were very popular.
By 1930, the ornamental vintage engagement rings and jewelry gave way to a more geometric shape and style. Jewelry and architecture became modernized and plain. Simple brooches depicting streamlined automobiles, cruise ships, and planes were in style and were created in gold and rare gemstones. Costume jewelry used these streamlined themes as well.
Designers such as Tiffany, Boucheron and Harry Winston were well known then just as they are today.
Art Deco .60ct. Diamond Antique Engagement – Fashion Ring Platinum
Art Deco engagement rings, brooches, pendants, and bracelet designs followed the history of the time, such as the depression and World War II. There is such a variety of jewelry produced during this historical time that you should find something special to your liking.
When it comes to Edwardian Jewelry, engagement rings have become some of the most coveted items with brides-to-be. Ladies that value the elegance of the era can truly appreciate the design and attention to detail that distinguishes Edwardian rings from today’s more contemporary jewelry. These neo-classical styles of the early 20th century make Edwardian engagement rings some of the most exciting pieces of jewelry for any woman to appreciate.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell an Edwardian engagement ring, you can be sure that you are dealing with something that is very special. Gesner Estate Jewelry specializes in early 20th century Edwardian and Art Deco platinum and has a very large inventory to choose from.
If you are interested in selling your jewelry, you will definitely want to consider bringing it into one of our two locations in the Tampa Bay area. Our associates will be very happy to evaluate your jewelry and make you a very fair offer.
Types of Edwardian Engagement Rings
Even though Edwardian rings are hard to find, there are still many options when it comes to the various styles that one has to choose from. Many of these elegantly hand-crafted rings offer a variety of settings and stones which make them extremely unique. These Edwardian rings later become heirlooms due to their amazing detail and beauty. Many hours of design and craftsmanship went into this jewelry and those efforts will be appreciated for years to come.
The value of a natural pearl & Edwardian antique pearl ring
A large natural pearl is considered the oldest and most valuable gemstone. When found, a single perfectly round natural pearl would be sold as a collector’s item because of its scarcity and considerable value. The larger the pearl, the more it is worth.
In 1520 B.C., a portion of a rare natural pearl was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess. This information is not surprising because natural pearls are not only considered extremely valuable but have been known to symbolize humility and purity.
Another example of the value of a single pearl is the historical fact that the Roman general, Vitellius, sold one of his mother’s pearls to fund an entire war. Hard to believe, but true!
This dainty and feminine natural Antique pearl and diamond ring is from the Edwardian time period, circa 1901-1914. It has a 3.8mm pearl and is surrounded by .33ct. T.W. of Rose Cut diamonds with SI clarity and G-H color. Furthermore, the shoulders of this ring have a leaf design with prong set diamonds. Crafted in Platinum and 14 karat yellow gold, this is a classic and elegant Antique Vintage pearl ring. A perfect addition to any woman’s jewelry wardrobe.
There are various styles of Antique Engagement Rings that people can choose from. Making the proper selection will depend on the particular look that one is attracted to and, of course, establishing budget parameters. Here are some examples of great styles of engagements rings that Gesner Estate Jewelry can offer.
Edwardian Engagement Rings
Edwardian Engagement Rings
Edwardian Engagement Rings were some of the most popular rings of the early 1900’s. These rings offer a lace-like detail filigree that was cherished by ladies of the Edwardian era. These classical rings offer a sense of diversity and special appeal that is unique to the era. The Edwardian rings were usually delicate and very feminine.
Art Deco Engagement Rings
Art Deco Engagement Rings
Art Deco Engagement Rings cover the time period between the 1920’s and 1930’s. Emeralds, Sapphires and Rubies became very popular and were often used with diamonds to create the “look” of the Art Deco era. The Art Deco “look” often combines influences of cubism, geometric and angular design. They are equally popular with the Edwardian look and certain to be cherished for years to come. These rings are very hard to find and are still very much in high demand.
Platinum Engagement Rings
Antique Platinum Engagement Rings
Antique Platinum Engagement Rings are what we specialize in and our collection features a very large inventory of breathtaking craftsmanship, style and design.
Gesner Estate Jewelry offers the finest selection of quality antique engagement rings at great prices. Take the time to view all the options that we offer on our site and please contact us if you have any questions. Visit us at https://gesner.com/ for a true visual experience! We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your needs. (813)282-1008 or (727)586-6000
The antique wedding band has a long tradition dating as far as 860 A. D. Wedding traditions varied greatly between “cultures, ethnic groups, religions and countries”, according to Wikipedia – Wedding.
Roman wedding customs gave way to the engagement ring as a gift. Today, an antique engagement ring would be looked at in the same way. It was worn on the third finger of the left hand, as it is today. It was believed that a nerve ran from the finger directly to the heart.
In Scottish weddings, the custom was to marry just outside the church with a ceremony in the Scottish language. The wedding party and guest then went inside the church for a ceremony in Latin where wedding bands were exchanged believing that the rings symbolically had no beginning or ending. Of course, the event was followed with a marriage kiss.
In Hawaii, very little is known about the old marriage tradition as there is no language of old Hawaii. However, we do know that they exchanged wedding bands symbolizing the sun, the earth and the heavens.
Pope Nicholas, in 860 A. D, told all that the engagement ring was required to seal the marriage. The ring was considered a ring of gold. It wasn’t until 617 years later that adding a diamond to the ring of gold as an engagement ring became popular.
In old England, the tradition of something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, started. Although these customs are used today, few know anything of its relevance.
Something old is symbolic of continuity, usually a piece of lace or an old piece of jewelry. Today, an antique wedding band or vintage wedding band could be used for something old. Something new could even be an antique wedding band and would be considered that something new. It is a new gift to the bride to be. Something borrowed would be symbolic of the future happiness and that was given to the bride by a friend. Something blue meant purity and a band of blue cloth was worn on the bottom of the bride and groom’s wedding attire.
During the time of the knights, the knight would go into a tournament wearing a single flower or a handkerchief from the bride. That has turned into the custom of the groom wearing a flower from the bride’s bouquet.
The white gown was not a symbol of purity but rather, of joy. In 1499, Ann of Brittany started the tradition of the white gown being fashionable wedding attire.
Today, some traditions have changed but many are the same. The diamond engagement ring, the wedding band symbolizing the never ending love between the husband and wife, the white wedding dress, the something blue and the single flower are still a popular tradition today.
If you would like to purchase a piece of finevintage jewelry, maybe avintage engagement ringfrom the Edwardian period or a vintage brooch from the Art Nouveau period, you need only look for an estate jewelry store for exactly what you are looking for.
Estate jewelry is jewelry that has been previously owned. It could be vintage or contemporary. Vintage jewelry is jewelry that is 50 years old, so that would be from 1950 or before.
Vintage jewelry from the 1940’s or 1950’s is called Retro jewelry. These pieces are often in yellow, pink or green gold with large stone, swirls and or synthetic rubies and natural diamonds.
The Art Deco period from 1920-1935 contains some of the most fascinating jewelry you can find. Engagement rings, vintage brooches and other vintage jewelry were often made in platinum. Vintage engagement rings contained lots of filigree interspersed with delicate small diamonds. The center diamond was always a European cut or old mine cut. You would often time find synthetic sapphires, natural rubies or natural emeralds used as accents.
Brooches were also made with filigree, diamonds, colored stones and pearls. Often time, you can find a brooch that was used as a brooch or as a pendant. The back of the brooch contains a pin that goes just a little past the length of the brooch for use as a brooch and it would also hold a bail that could be flipped up for use as a necklace.
Dangle earrings were also popular during the Art Deco period. They contained diamonds, synthetic sapphires and natural rubies and emeralds. Bracelets had geometric shapes containing European cut diamonds and often time colored stones as accents.
The Art Nouveau period, which is my favorite time period for jewelry, lasted from 1890-1905. Most of the jewelry was made in gold with sensuous flowing lines. The Art Nouveau period created pieces of jewelry art using butterflies or dragonflies in flight, flowers, snakes or bats. This time was also known for using the shapes of a woman or a woman’s head with flowing hair. Plique a jour, a form of enameling, was also used. The gemstones used were pastel in color like moonstone, citrine, peridot and pearls.
These are just some of the vintage time period jewelry you could consider. You could also look for jewelry from the Edwardian period, 1901-1910 or the Victorian period, 1837-1901 as well. There is so much to pick from to add a different little something for every outfit you wear.
