Antique vs Vintage vs Estate Jewellery. What's The Difference?

Your essential guide to these key jewellery terms

If you've ever browsed through a jewellery auction catalogue or explored a collection of heirlooms, you've likely come across the terms antique jewellery, vintage jewellery, and estate jewellery.

While they’re often used interchangeably, they each have distinct meanings — and understanding the difference can help you make smarter decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or simply admiring fine pieces.

In this guide, we’ll break down each term clearly so you can recognise their unique characteristics, appreciate their value, and feel confident when navigating the world of jewellery auctions.

What Is Antique Jewellery?

Antique jewellery refers to any piece that is over 100 years old. These treasures are often steeped in history and craftsmanship, typically originating from notable design eras such as:

• Georgian (1714–1837)

• Victorian (1837–1901)

• Edwardian (1901–1910)

• Early Art Nouveau and Belle Époque periods

  
  

Characteristics of Antique Jewellery:

• Handmade techniques with incredible attention to detail

• Use of old-cut diamonds and natural gemstones

• Settings often in silver-topped gold or high-carat yellow gold

• Romantic motifs and ornate designs

  
  

Why it matters: Antique jewellery is highly collectible due to its age, rarity, and historical significance. Owning an antique piece means holding a tangible connection to the past — which can add emotional and market value.

What Is Vintage Jewellery?

Vintage jewellery typically refers to items that are 20 to 100 years old, but not yet antique. The term captures a wide array of design periods, each with a unique aesthetic. Popular vintage eras include:

• Art Deco (1920s–1930s)

• Retro (1940s–1950s)

• Mid-century Modern (1950s–1970s)

• Even 1980s–1990s pieces are now considered vintage

  
  

Characteristics of Vintage Jewellery:

• Iconic designs from renowned fashion and jewellery houses

• Use of coloured gemstones and bold styling

• Recognisable trends from each decade (think cocktail rings, geometric lines, chunky gold)

  
  

Why it matters: The appeal of vintage jewellery lies in its nostalgic charm and enduring style. With fashion trends cycling back, many vintage pieces feel both timeless and contemporary — making them perfect for today’s collectors and wearers.

What Is Estate Jewellery?

Estate jewellery is a broader term that refers to any previously owned jewellery, regardless of its age. An estate piece can be antique, vintage, or even relatively modern — the key defining feature is that it was part of someone’s personal collection.

Characteristics of Estate Jewellery:

• May include heirlooms, inheritance pieces, or sold-from-collection items

• Can range in value and quality from costume jewellery to museum-worthy gems

• Often includes pieces with stories, provenance, or emotional significance

  
  

Why it matters: Estate jewellery offers exceptional variety and potential value. It can be a gateway to rare, one-of-a-kind finds, often at a better price point than brand-new equivalents — especially when purchasing at auction.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Knowing whether a piece is antique, vintage, or estate affects:

• Valuation: Older and rarer pieces typically carry a premium.

• Provenance: Some buyers seek specific periods or styles.

• Investment Potential: Antique and vintage jewellery often appreciate in value.

• Care and Wearability: Some antique pieces may require special handling or wear less frequently.

  
  

Expert Insight at Furlong Auction House

At Furlong, our jewellery specialists bring decades of experience in identifying, valuing, and marketing jewellery from all periods. Whether you’re curious about a family heirloom or looking to consign a collection, we can help you understand exactly what you have — and how best to sell it.

Book a free valuation with our jewellery team today. Let us tell the story behind your piece — and find it a new chapter with the right buyer.

Key Takeaways:

Term	Definition	Age	Typical Characteristics
Antique	Jewellery over 100 years old	100+ years	Handcrafted, ornate, historically significant
Vintage	Jewellery 20–100 years old	20–100 years	Stylish, trend-led, iconic design eras
Estate	Any previously owned jewellery	Any age	Can include antique, vintage, or modern pieces