Blog

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 »

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 »

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 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

As gold prices continue to climb, many collectors and buyers are rethinking how and where they invest in fine jewelry. At Charles Schwartz & Son, we believe that moments like these are the perfect time to consider adding vintage jewelry to your collection, especially if you’re looking to buy vintage jewelry in Washington DC. Why?… Read more »

At Charles Schwartz & Son, we believe every birth month deserves to be celebrated with beauty and meaning. For those born in August, peridot is the gemstone that shines brightest. Known for its vibrant green hue and rich history, peridot takes center stage in one of our newest arrivals, an exquisite 18K yellow gold necklace,… Read more »