Jewelry Through the Eras: A Guide to Vintage Styles from Across History
Vintage jewelry isn’t just about sparkle—it’s about the stories they hold. From the hand-forged elegance of the Georgian era to the bold lines of Art Deco and the statement-making styles of today, each piece carries the mood and artistry of its time.
At Nova Lita Vintage, we curate jewelry that connects you to history. Let’s explore the defining eras of antique and vintage jewelry so you can find the style that speaks to you.
Georgian Era: Elegance and Intricacy
When: 1714 - 1837
What Defines It: Handcrafted pieces, nature-inspired motifs, rose-cut diamonds, and vibrant colored gemstones set in silver-topped gold.
Vibe: Sophisticated and status-driven. This was the era of candlelit ballrooms and hand-engraved romance.
Who to Know: Makers like George Wickes set the tone for refined craftsmanship that still inspires today.
Victorian Era: A Tale of Love and Lavishness
When: 1837 - 1901
What Shined: Jewelry in the Victorian era evolved with Queen Victoria’s tastes, starting with romantic, delicate designs and moving towards bolder, more colorful pieces.
Cultural Vibes: It was an era of deep sentimentality, where jewelry often held personal meanings, memorializing loved ones or celebrating romance.
Who Made It Big: Firms like Garrard & Co. (still around today!) rose to prominence with their exquisite creations.
Art Nouveau: Nature in a New Light
When: 1890 - 1910
What Shined: Art Nouveau jewelry threw the rulebook out the window, favoring organic shapes and enchanting motifs straight out of a fantasy.
Cultural Vibes: Ethereal and artistic. Think dragonflies, orchids, and mythological figures brought to life in jewelry form.
Who Made It Big: Icons like René Lalique transformed jewelry into wearable art with their innovative designs and use of novel materials.
Art Deco: Bold and Beautiful
When: 1920 - 1939
What Shined: Symmetry, sharp lines, and eye-catching contrast. Diamonds, onyx, jade, and sapphires reigned supreme.
Cultural Vibes: The era mirrored the excitement of the times, celebrating modernity and the allure of the new technological age.
Who Made It Big: Powerhouses like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels defined the period and set the standard with their glamorous designs and flawless craftsmanship.
Post-War to Modern Times: Express Yourself
When: 1945 - Present
What Shined: From the revival of femininity in jewelry to the embrace of abstract and contemporary designs, the post-war era to today has been all about showcasing individuality.
Cultural Vibes: Jewelry became more personal, more expressive. No rules—just reflections of identity.
Who Made It Big: Brands like Tiffany & Co., Harry Winston, and Bulgari rose to fame in this era, blending tradition with innovation while new-generation designers push boundaries today (hi, that's us!).
Discover Your Piece of History at Nova Lita Vintage
Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of Georgian pieces, the romance of the Victorian era, or the sleek geometry of Art Deco, vintage jewelry helps you wear a piece of the past in the present.
At Nova Lita Vintage, we hand-pick pieces from each of these storied eras to help you find jewelry that doesn’t just look beautiful, it tells a story.
Ready to find your signature style? Browse our collection →