Looking for unique pieces to enhance your look? Vintage jewellery is the perfect way to add a touch of originality and elegance to your style. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of jewellery of yesteryear and discover why jewellery from the past is all the rage today.

The irresistible charm of antique jewellery: between history and style

Vintage jewellery is more than just an accessory. There is a whole history of fashion and craftsmanship behind each piece. When we think of vintage jewellery, we immediately think of :

- Art Deco rings with geometric designs

- 50s pearl necklaces

- finely carved Victorian brooches

- 80s gold earrings

 

Each era has its own style, techniques and materials, so when you choose vintage jewellery, you're not just dressing up, you're wearing a piece of history.

The incomparable quality of jewellery from the past

Vintage jewellery is often exquisitely crafted and of high quality. Artisan jewellers made it a point of honour to create pieces that would last. The result? Jewellery that has stood the test of time.

 

JEAN VENDÔME, Paris jeweller: "tour" ring circa 1956 in yellow gold and citrines

The great jewellery houses: a heritage of luxury and expertise

When it comes to vintage jewellery, you can't ignore the big names that have shaped the history of jewellery. Names like Cartier, Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels sound like the stuff of dreams, don't they? The historical expertise of these brands guarantees exceptional jewellery, with a historical cachet to boot.

Take Chanel, for example, whose gold cufflinks have become a true classic in luxury jewellery. Similarly, Tiffany & Co's engagement rings have delighted generations of lovers. And what about Bulgari and its snake-like necklaces that wrap around the neck?

Chanel Paris: Chanel gold-plated cufflinks

Each house has its own style, that little something extra that makes it instantly recognisable:

- Dior and its delicate floral motifs;

- Piaget and its ultra-thin jewellery watches;

- Chaumet and its tiaras worthy of queens;

- Mauboussin and its bold coloured stones;

- Dinh Van and its sleek, modern designs;

- Hermès and its leather and precious metal bracelets. 

 

Boucheron and Van Cleef and Arpels advertising 1978

Finding that rare pearl: where to find vintage jewellery in Paris?

Paris may be the undisputed capital of fashion, but it's also a haven for antique jewellery hunters. If you're in the area, you're in luck! Our vintage jewellery boutique, close to the Village Suisse and the Eiffel Tower, is the perfect place to pick up some gems.

The 15th arrondissement: a district that shines with a thousand lights

It's no coincidence that Pierre de Julie is based here. The 15th arrondissement is THE district for antique dealers and luxury boutiques. Kill two birds with one stone: admire the Eiffel Tower and find the jewel of your dreams!

Great ways to find antique jewellery

If you're a vintage jewellery enthusiast, here are a few tips to help you find what you're looking for:

1. Sunday morning garage sales
2. Antique fairs 
3. Specialist online retailers
4. Vintage boutiques like ours 

How to choose and wear vintage jewellery with style

So you've found the piece you love?  Now you just have to figure out how to make it work with your wardrobe.

BULGARI: Tubogas 3 gold watch

 

Mix and match: the art of blending old and new

The key is to be bold in combining different styles. An Art Deco necklace worn with a simple T-shirt can be remarkably elegant. The basic concept is to give free rein to your creativity. There are no rigid conventions, only your aesthetic sensibilities.

Taking  care of your vintage jewellery 

Like fine wine, vintage jewellery improves with age. But it's important to look after it! Here are some tips on how to keep your jewellery looking its best:

- Avoid water and chemicals

- Store them in separate boxes to avoid scratches

- Gently clean them with a soft cloth

For more information on caring for antique jewellery, read this article for practical advice.

Gemmology: the secret of gems

Vintage jewellery is also an opportunity to discover exceptional gemstones. Gemmology is an art, and vintage jewellery is often the perfect ambassador for it.

A rainbow of gems 

Vintage jewellery features all kinds of dreamy stones:

- Ruby, passion red

- Sapphire, deep blue

- Emerald, intense green

- Diamonds, eternal and indestructible

- Opal, with multicoloured reflections

- Amethyst, royal violet

- Topaz, all shades of blue

- Garnet, deep red and mysterious

BULGARI: Choker necklace from the Heritage Collection in yellow gold set with diamonds and emeralds, 1988

 

Every stone has its own history and legends. Did you know, for example, that sapphires are said to protect their owners from evil? 

The cuts that make them sparkle

It is not just the colour that makes a gemstone attractive. The cut also influences the brilliance and beauty of the stone. In vintage jewellery we find cuts that we don't see much of today:

- The rose cut, with its rounded facets

- The antique cut, with its large base

- The marquise cut, in the shape of a shuttle

- The emerald cut, rectangular and elegant

ROLAND SCHAD: Dioptase ring in yellow gold

The eras and styles of vintage jewellery: a journey through time

Vintage jewellery is like a time machine. Each era has its own style:

 Art Nouveau (1890-1910)

This was the era of organic shapes and floral motifs. There was a lot of enamel and coloured stones. Jewellery from this period is pure poetry. 

Art Deco (1920-1930)

Geometric lines and bold contrasts dominated. This was the era of long necklaces and bold clips. The style was based on modernity and pure elegance.

The retro style (1940-1950)

After the war, jewellery became more voluminous and colourful. Motifs such as bows and stylised flowers appeared. This was the era of cocktail rings, large rings that made a big impression.

The sixties and seventies

This was the time of the explosion of psychedelic colours and shapes. Jewellery became statements, wearable works of art. Everything was bold: materials, shapes, combinations.

 

Boucheron advertising 1970/1980

After all, wearing vintage jewellery is not just a matter of style. It's a way to stand out, to tell a story through your accessories. Whether it's an Art Nouveau pendant, an Art Deco brooch or a Seventies bracelet, each piece has its own character, its own story. 

To learn more about the fascinating history of jewellery through the ages, check out this article on the history of jewellery through the ages.

Now you know a little more about vintage jewellery. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious, don't hesitate to stop by our boutique near the Swiss Village or browse the wonderful pieces we have on offer in our online shop.

We are also happy to offer free appraisals of your vintage jewellery, so please send an email with your photos to contact@lespierresdejulie.com.

We will be delighted to share our passion with you and who knows, you may even leave with a little piece of history on your finger or around your neck! Whether it's a ring set with a Burmese ruby, a chiselled gold bangle or a diamond river necklace, each vintage piece has a story to tell. That's what makes these jewels so special, so unique. So, are you ready to enter the fascinating world of vintage jewellery?