If you’ve ever shopped for jewellery, you’ve probably seen terms like vintage, antique, or even estate thrown around. At first, they might seem like fancy words for “old stuff” - but in the jewellery world, they actually mean very different things. Each tells a story about the piece’s age, style, and history. Whether you’re a collector, a first-time buyer, or just browsing, understanding these categories will make it easier to spot something truly special.
What is antique jewellery?
- Age: Antique jewellery is anything that’s 100 years or older.
- Examples: Think Georgian (1714–1837), Victorian (1837–1901), Edwardian (1901–1910), or early Art Deco pieces from the 1920s.
- Features: You’ll see old-world craftsmanship like hand-carved details, filigree platinum work, rose-cut or old mine-cut diamonds, and designs that reflect the fashion of their time.
- Value: Because these pieces are rare and expertly made, they’re often highly collectible - and sometimes even considered investment-worthy.
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Why choose antique? There’s nothing quite like wearing a piece that has survived a century or more. It’s history you can hold in your hands.
What is vintage jewellery?
- Age: Vintage pieces are usually 20 to 99 years old.
- Examples: Mid-century designs from the 1940s–60s, bold gold styles from the 1970s, or flashy 1980s statement pieces.
- Features: Vintage jewellery often mirrors the trends of its era - think Art Deco geometry, 60s modernism, or chunky 80s glamour.
- Value: Collectors love vintage for its unique charm and nostalgia. Designer pieces from names like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., or Boucheron from the mid-20th century are especially prized.
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Why choose vintage? These pieces are one-of-a-kind and often feel more special than something mass-produced today. They’re accessible, wearable, and full of character.
What is estate jewellery?
- Definition: Estate jewellery simply means pre-owned jewellery, no matter how old it is. It could be antique, vintage, or even fairly recent - as long as it’s been worn before, it counts.
- Examples: An inherited diamond ring, a pre-loved branded bracelet, or a 1920s sapphire brooch.
- Features: Estate pieces can be anything from a centuries-old heirloom to a designer ring from just a few years ago.
- Value: Price depends more on the maker, materials, and condition than age alone.
- Why choose estate jewellery? It’s flexible, giving you access to rare treasures or modern classics. And the term pre-loved jewellery really captures the charm - each piece has a story and has been cared for along the way.
Why does terminology matter?
These labels aren’t just for show - they tell you a lot about the piece you’re buying. A diamond ring described as antique tells you it’s over 100 years old, while “vintage” hints at mid-century style. “Estate” or “pre-loved jewellery” reassures you that it’s quality jewellery with a history, even if it’s not ancient.
Benefits of choosing pre-loved jewellery
Buying pre-loved jewellery, whether antique, vintage, or estate, has some great perks:
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Sustainability: You’re giving a second life to a beautiful piece, reducing the need for new mining and materials.
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Unique character: Older jewellery often comes with one-of-a-kind details that you just won’t see in modern mass-produced designs.
- Value for money: Estate and vintage pieces can be better value than buying brand new, especially if it’s a designer piece.
- Storytelling: Every pre-loved jewel has a past - it could have been a love token, worn through a glamorous era, or passed down through a family.
Buy Your Vintage Jewellery at Winhall & de Stadler Jewellers
At Winhall & de Stadler Jewellers in Constantia, you’ll find a carefully curated collection of vintage and antique jewellery. From diamond rings to pearl necklaces and coloured gemstone pieces, every item has been chosen for its craftsmanship, beauty, and timeless appeal.
Whether you’re after a 100-year-old antique or a statement piece of pre-loved jewellery from the mid-20th century, our team will help you explore the collection and find something truly unique. Pop into Constantia Emporium or contact us directly to see what’s available.
