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What's In A Name?

Posted on Sep 26, '14

Many of us are confused by several descriptive words: antique, vintage or estate. When it comes to buying jewelry, or furniture or anything for that matter, age makes a difference.   And no wonder there is befuddlement, as for all of those terms, there is no standard definition. The good news is that there are some guidelines and there are tips below to sort out the murky waters.

Antique Jewelry

The word antique can define anything over 75 years old, or over 100 years old. Most reputable dealers, auction houses and appraisers take the conservative approach. That means that the term antique should be applied to anything that is 100 years or older. But be sure to ask an actual date or circa date as this practice can vary and vary widely!

Georgian Garnet Earrings Circa 1820 & Antique!

Vintage Jewelry

Generally the word vintage has come to mean anything that was made at least 25 years ago and older. Here again, ask specific questions if dating and age are important to you. It also means that some things that are 90 years old are termed vintage as they are not quite old enough for the classification, antique.  You can find some estate jewelry examples here.

Art Deco Diamond Earrings Circa 1925 & Vintage!

Estate Jewelry

A general catch all term that has little specific meaning. One accepted definition is anything that is made, then resold. For instance, if a ring is purchased new today, and resold tomorrow, it could be termed estate.  Everyone loves an estate sale, but this just means anything that everything in that sale was sold before.

Peridot & Amethyst Ring Circa 2000 & Estate

Best advice – just ask. Most dealers that are knowledgeable should be able to date what you are buying at least within a 10 years span either way older or newer, or give you a circa date. If they can’t tell you, maybe there is a good reason, just delve deeper for more insight.