Explore the Eras
Victorian (1837-1901)
Victorian estate jewelry earns its antique status for being over a century old, hailing from the reign of Queen Victirua (1837-1901). Renowned for its intricate craftmanship, the era exudes regal sophistication. Yellow gold accents exquisite gemstones were favored materials, adding to the luxurious of these pieces.
A diverse period in jewelry history! Yellow gold was the metal of choice. The 49'ER "Gold Rush" brought with it a gold fever. Silver laid over gold was occasionally used for the setting of diamonds.
Black was "in" as Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, dies in 1861 and the whole country mourned for 60 years alongside their beloved Queen.
Black enamel and jet jewelry were the fashion statements of the day. Pearls were the fashion representing tears for the departed.
Art Nouveau (1890-1910)
Explore our collection of Art Nouvevau jewelry, featuring flowing lines and nature-inspired designs that capture the elegance and innovation of this iconic era. From stunning vrooches to delicate pendants, each piece is a unique and timeless masterpiece.
Art Nouveau evokes images of sensuousness, the Gaiety of Paris, Toulouse Lautrec and silent film star Sarah Bernhardt who had an impressive collection of Art Nouveau jewelry, particularly in enamel by the Art Nouveau master, Rene Lalique.
Black was "in" as Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, dies in 1861 and the whole country mourned for 60 years alongside their beloved Queen.
Trees, flowers of all species, dragonflies, swans, peacocks and snakes were some of the many forms reinterpreted and exaggerated.
Belle Époque (1871-1914)
The Belle Époque era was a time of unmatched elegance and artistic expression in jewelry design, characterized by intricate craftsmanship, the use of high-quality gemstones, and influences from the broader cultural and artistic movements of the time.
The Gay Nineties produced another distinct style, Belle Époque. Belle Époque was opulent, full-blown, almost garish.
The big diamond jewels worn by Lillian Russell characterize the feeling.
It was a far cry from both the Victorian mourning jewelry that preceded and the tailored, lace like looks of Edwardian that was to come.
Edwardian (1901-1915)
Investing in a Piece of History. Owing an Edwardian jewelry piece is more than just wearing a bwautiful accessory; it’s holding a tangible piece of history. Each delicate detail whispers stories of a bygone era, of romance, elegance, and a love dor the finer things in life.
King Edward VII and his elegant wife Queen Alexandra led English society to new taste levels so sophistication and elegance became the definitive style of this period.
Edwardian jewels reflected gracious delicacy with ribbons, bows, swags and tassels, decorated décolletè dresses of lace, embroidery and fringe of pale hues.
Toward the end of the 19th century, diamonds were found in quantity in South Africa and Kimberly.
Art Deco (1920-1935)
Art Deco Jewelry depics the modern age. Designs are streamlined geometric, symmetric, and highly stylized. Diamonds were very popular during this time and were often used with rubies, sapphires and emeralds.
A period of seduction! The Age of "Speed" and "Speakeasy's". Social and political elements blended together to create an air of restlessness and recklessness.
Women bobbed their hair, wore dresses up to their knees and did not wear corsets! In the Roaring "20's" dancing was much more free and women wore long gold necklaces, which swung with their every movement.
Long multiple strands of pearls were also a must for the new flapper dress. The glamour of "Hollywood" was very much in vogue.
Retro (1935-1950)
The Golden Age of Hollywood brought big, bold glamour to the jewelry scene. Retro jewelry features multi-colored golds in yellow, rose, and green which make appearances together for just the right amount of drama. Each piece is ready for its clode-up!.
Retro, as the name implies, was a distinct throwback away from the rigid geometry of Art Deco.
The sleek, symmetrical lines of Art Deco gave way to more fluid, sculptural asymmetrical forms. Also, where Deco used platinum and white gold, Retro used pink or rose gold.
The almost dominant use of pink gold was caused by a wartime shortage of alloy to make conventional gold colors.
The Opulent 1950s (1950-1960)
The Opulent 1950s era was defined by a return to glamorous and feminine jewelry designs, characterized by bold and elegant pieces with high-quality craftsmanship and prominent use of diamonds, pearls, and colored gemstones.
After World War II, the United States dominated the world and the jewelry world as well. Big was good and bigger was better! The jeweler who personified the look was Harry Winston.
He, almost single handedly pushed the popularity of more and bigger diamonds to the world.
Jewelry literally dripping with diamonds and other precious stones came into vogue. 1950's designs became more gem encrusted and opulent.
Late 20th Century (1960-2000)
The late 20th century was characterized by a diverse range of jewelry styles, marked by innovation, experimentation with new materials, and the rise of contemporary and avant-garde designs. This era embraced bold, statement pieces that reflected personal expression and cultural trends.
Fashion was truly international in the period dating from the 1960’s through 1980’s. The United States continued to dominate fashion but jewelry was made throughout the world.
While America might not have been the innovator, if a look did not succeed here, it did not last. Yellow gold and mixed metals that could be worn both evening and day reigned supreme.
Casual was important at every level of society. In the 1990’s, platinum and white gold made a comeback.
40 years of excellence
About Singer Collection
With over 40 years of excellence, the Singer Collection is dedicated to curating and showcasing fine estate and antique jewelry.
Our mission is to connect discerning customers with the finest pieces from various historical periods, preserving the legacy of exquisite craftsmanship and design. Learn more about our history and the values that drive us.
Contact Us
We're here to assist you on your journey through the exquisite world of fine estate and antique jewelry.
