Dan's Papers - June 20, 2008 - Fashionista! by Kelly Krieger

Do you have a treasure box of jewelry in your home? If your grandmother left you some of her jewels, or perhaps even her costume jewelry, you may be surprised at just how much it's worth. You might even have something passed down from royalty!

However, it's crucial to do a bit of research before bringing anything to your local jeweler for an appraisal. Any information you have about your jewelry will be extremely helpful (style, timeline, and material, i.e. gold, platinum, ruby, sapphire, diamond, etc...) Knowing the era from which your jewelry originates will aid in a more exact assessment. The following is a brief timeline that may help guide you:

The Georgian era (1714 to 1835) of jewelry made use of colored stones, such as the sapphire, emerald, topaz, garnet, and citrine. The designs were very artistic, like handmade sculptured pieces. Pieces from this era are very hard to come by.

During the Victorian era, 1840 to 1890, Queen Victoria wore styles that were considered romantic in appearance. The amethyst, garnet, pearl, and citrine were favored. They often appeared with gilded metal and rolled gold. Floral styles and images of nature were often used. Also, during the period that the Queen was in mourning over the death of her husband, Prince Albert, she wore a lot of gold and black enamel gothic-style jewelry, including brooches, bracelets, and rings.

The Edwardian era (in France also known as La Belle Époque) from 1900 to 1915 is named after England's King Edward. Pearls, diamonds and platinum were very popular. This era was highly recognized for its detail and ornate designs.

The art nouveau era (1895 to 1910) was also known as arts & crafts in Britain and Jugenstil in Germany. This was an interesting era filled with the use of moonstones, silver, and enamels adorned with flowery images of nature, such as dragonflies.

Next, art deco (1920 to 1935) jewelry highlighted the roaring 20s. Long beaded necklaces and strands of pearls were in style. Platinum and white gold were widely used. Retro jewelry (1935 to 1950) made use of rose gold and platinum. Chunky styles and bright colored stones were predominantly used. It was during this period that oversized (wide) bracelets and clip earrings made their debut.

Remember, the styles of yesteryear can certainly be carried into the present. The right piece of jewelry can accent even the trendiest outfit. That simple, elegant look can also be jazzed up with a bit of sparkle and glamour. Chunky rings, necklaces, and bracelets are all the rage, and a perfect finishing touch for any night out on the town in the Hamptons this summer. If you don't have the "real deal," there are an abundance of boutiques that offer quality pieces at affordable prices. Renaissance, in Southampton, is well-known for carrying designers that have re-created many of the most ornate styles from the past.

Antique jewelry can be worn with the same style and grace today as it has for a hundred years.

The attention to detail and craftsmanship of antique pieces can not be matched. Family heirlooms that are passed down from generation to generation offer today's youth the opportunity to hold or perhaps wear a piece of history. Antique jewelry will always remain timeless.

When in East Hampton you must stop by Gems from the Past. They offer an exquisite collection of unique estate jewelry and rare gems. Mayfair and London Jewelers both in East Hampton and Southampton are first rate jewelers who carry both modern and estate jewelry. Also in Southampton, Rose Jewelers, Corwin's, and Jennifer Miller are reputable places not to be missed.