Antique and Period Jewelry

Period jewelry objects reveal a story about the origin of a piece even after oral tradition wanes. The materials, stones, and construction are characteristics discerned by the gemologist during an inspection. In the absence of hallmarks and trademarks, the design of jewelry leads a knowledgeable appraiser to a conclusion of the period in which it became a beautiful object for wear by the owner. Antique and period jewelry originated in a specific era when materials and implements were available to create the finest jewelry. Jewelry design evolved with the prevailing fashion and style the time. When current fashion embraced plunging necklines, a variety of neckwear emerged from major design houses, including, for example, negligees or sautoirs. When hair designs revealed the ear, girandole pendants with three matching pear-shaped stones were among the fashionable accents for formal attire. An appraiser must understand the history of fashion and the major characteristics of each major style. During the period of design from the late 19th and early 20th century, the object assists in the determination of the origin of a piece based on whether the style is Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, or Art Deco. A gemological evaluation and testing of gemstones aids the identification process. The identification combines with the knowledge of materials and techniques used in the construction of jewelry during various historical periods.

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