Choosing jewelry as a gift is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for someone you care about. It is also, we know, one of the most nerve-wracking. The options feel endless, the stakes feel high, and the fear of getting it wrong can stop even the most well-intentioned gift-giver in their tracks…. Read more »
Posts By: dcadmin
The Revival of Art Deco Jewelry in DC
Art Deco jewelry never really disappeared. One hundred years after the style first captivated a generation, collectors, investors, and everyday jewelry lovers are rediscovering what makes these pieces so enduring. At Charles Schwartz & Son, we have spent over a century handling some of the finest Art Deco pieces to pass through Washington DC, and… Read more »
The Stones of Spring: A Guide to Blush and Rose Toned Jewelry in Washington DC
Every April, Washington DC transforms. The cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin bloom for just a week or two before the petals fall, and the city pauses to take notice. It is one of those rare moments when the whole region seems to share the same color palette: soft pinks, warm peaches, and the faintest… Read more »
The Language of Flowers in Jewelry: What Every Bloom Really Means
Long before a text message or a love letter, Victorians sent their feelings through flowers and when the blooms faded, they wore them instead. Floral motifs in fine jewelry were never just decoration. They were secret messages, carried close to the heart. At Charles Schwartz & Son, we handle these pieces every day, and we… Read more »
Amethyst Through the Ages: From Ancient Greece to Modern Fine Jewelry
February’s birthstone has one of the most fascinating stories in the history of fine jewelry. Amethyst, a purple variety of quartz ranging from pale lilac to deep violet, has been worn by pharaohs, coveted by royalty, and carried into battle as a protective talisman. At Charles Schwartz & Son, we’ve handled countless amethyst pieces over… Read more »
The Heart Through History: Heart Jewelry from Georgian to Art Deco
The heart has been the most enduring symbol of love in jewelry for centuries, but its expression has transformed dramatically across different eras. From the hand-carved Georgian crowned hearts of the 1700s to the geometric precision of Art Deco designs in the 1920s, each period brought its own romantic language to this timeless motif. Understanding… Read more »
Understanding Jewelry Hallmarks: What Those Tiny Stamps Mean
You’ve inherited your grandmother’s antique jewelry ring, and inside the band you spot tiny markings: “14K,” “925,” or maybe a minuscule leopard’s head. These aren’t decorative flourishes. They’re hallmarks, and they tell the complete story of your jewelry’s metal content, origin, and authenticity. After more than 100 years of examining fine jewelry, our expert jewelers… Read more »
Understanding Rarity: A Washington DC Jeweler’s Perspective on Rare Gemstones
When clients ask what makes a gemstone truly rare, they often expect a simple answer about availability. After over 135 years working with fine jewelry in Washington DC, we’ve found that true rarity isn’t about how few exist. It’s the convergence of beauty, durability, and geological conditions so specific they might occur in only a… Read more »
Estate Jewelry in Washington DC: Your Q&A Guide
For over a century, Charles Schwartz & Son has been a trusted jewelry retailer serving the Washington DC metro area and Chevy Chase, Maryland, specializing in vintage, antique, and estate jewelry. Known for exceptional quality and personalized service, our team helps buyers and sellers navigate the world of estate jewelry. Below, we answer the most… Read more »
Popular Places in DC to Propose and the Perfect Ring to Match the Moment
A proposal is one of those very, very special moments. When it comes to asking that big question, Washington DC certainly isn’t lacking in breath-taking backdrops. Whether you’re looking for those timeless monuments or a quiet garden, the right setting (and the right ring) can make this moment last a lifetime. At Charles Schwartz & Son,… Read more »
16 of the Top Questions for DC Jewelry Buyers
Buying engagement rings is an exciting time! But it also raises a lot of questions. Whether you’re just starting your search or looking to restore an antique family ring, here’s the top questions we’ve heard from customers. 1. How much should I budget for an engagement ring in DC? The cost of an engagement… Read more »
Every Occasion, Every Lifestyle: a simple guide to antique diamond earrings
At Charles Schwartz & Son, we’ve spent over a century teaching our clients how to build their diamond estate jewelry. Whether you’re shopping for a special event or don’t know where to start, this guide will give you the rundown of everything you need to make the perfect choice. 1. Everyday Earrings Diamond stud earrings… Read more »
