18th Century Goldsmith Work (for example snuffboxes):
Summary: Snuff taking was exceedingly fashionable throughout the 18th century all throughout Europe. As such, snuffboxes and snuff taking accessories of all types and quality were very prevalent.
Ancient Jewelry
Summary: Civilizations since early times have created adornments for the body, across all cultures. Ancient jewelry generally also served a function as well as being decorative.
Art Deco (1915 - 1935)
Summary: Art Deco utilizes bold colors and geometric lines and shapes for its distinctive look.
Art Nouveau (1890 - 1910)
Summary: Art Nouveau utilizes organic forms and sinuous lines to create flowing, romantic designs often incorporating female figures.
Arts and Crafts (late 19th to early 20th century)
Summary: The Arts and Crafts movement saw the return of simple design and hand craftsmanship.
Edwardian / Belle Epoche Jewelry (1890 - 1915)
Summary: Many antique engagement rings come from this period, with petite and pretty designs and use of filigree and openwork.
Eye on Gems: Pearls
Summary: From the Catalogue of Antiques and Fine Art; By Mark Schaffer of A La Vieille Russie
Georgian Jewelry (1714 - 1837)
Summary: Georgian jewelry is quite rare and often featured large colorful gems in closed-back settings.
Mid-Century (1950 - 1960)
Summary: Mid-Century jewelry saw the return of the usage of platinum which had been previously banned for non-military use during WWII. Large colorful gems were set into simple settings.
Renaissance Jewelry (14th - 17th century)
Summary: Renaissance jewelry often utilized enamel work with cabochon colored stones, because more advanced cutting methods had not been developed at this time. Forms were often simple, but the pieces were highly decorative through the use of colorful enamels and gemstones.
Retro (1940 - 1950)
Summary: The Retro period defined Hollywood Glamour of the 1940's with its bold designs and heavy usage of gold and large colored stones.
Russian Antique Decorative Arts and Jewelry
Summary: Pre-Revolutionary Russian decorative arts are especially famous for the enamel work and distinctive forms - subtly different from Western designs by incorporation of some Eastern influences due to the country's geographical location and orthodox Christian tradition. The most well-known maker is Fabergé - the Imperial Jeweler who created the famed Easter Eggs.
Victorian Jewelry (1837 - 1901)
Summary: Victorian jewelry spans many different styles and looks, from sentimental pieces such as hair jewelry, miniature portraits and memento mori to revival pieces spurred by archaeological discoveries. Use of unusual materials was also common. Pieces were often made with tortoise shell, natural sea shells, jet and lava as much as gold, silver, diamonds and other gemstones.
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