Discover one of the most unique collections of antique jewelry in DC
Charles Schwartz and Son has been dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences and the highest quality antique jewelry in the nation’s capital for over 135 years. With our commitment to exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction, we have earned a stellar reputation among other jewelry stores in Washington, DC. Whether it’s refurbishing a family heirloom or finding the perfect gift for a special occasion, we are here to serve you.
We have curated a diverse collection of fine antique, estate, and designer jewelry. Our brand embodies elegance and sophistication, inviting jewelry enthusiasts and capital visitors to stop by and experience our one-of-a-kind pieces. At Charles Schwartz and Son, we have been in the jewelry industry since 1888, which is why we are considered the go-to destination for those seeking antique jewelry that stands the test of time.
Explore our assortment of antique jewelry in Washington, DC
Our collection of jewelry ranges from antique, estate, designer, to vintage pieces. When buying fine jewelry, it’s important to know the difference:
- Estate jewelry: Estate jewelry refers to pre-owned jewelry that is available for sale or acquisition. At Charles Schwartz and Son, estate jewelry represents pieces that have been carefully curated from various periods and styles. These pieces hold rich history in terms of their era of creation and their previous holders, making them some of the most unique pieces we offer.
- Antique jewelry: Antique jewelry refers to pieces that are at least 100 years old. They reflect the distinct styles, materials, and techniques of the era in which they were created. These treasures are often one-of-a-kind or made in limited quantities, making them highly coveted by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. The timeless beauty in these pieces transcends trends and captivates admirers across generations.
- Vintage jewelry: The vintage jewelry collection at Charles Schwartz and Son encompasses a diverse range of styles, including Art Deco, Retro, and more. Each era features distinct characteristics and design elements, reflecting the fashion and cultural influences of its time.
- Designer jewelry: Designer jewelry refers to collections created by renowned designers who possess exceptional skill, creativity, and a unique artistic vision. The designer jewelry at Charles Schwartz and Son consists of distinctive fine craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and uncompromising elegance.
Travel through time at our antique jewelry store in DC
As we look back on history, we’re able to decipher different time periods solely off of their artistic style, values, and trends. These different time periods are categorized into eras. As each time period progressed and each era developed its new set of core values, art and jewelry were heavily influenced. See below each era’s defining characteristics:
- Georgian (1714-1830): Flamboyant fashion, large gemstones, diamond detailing, and mini portraits. Love tokens, mourning jewelry, and elaborate accessories were popular.
- Victorian (1839-1901): Religion, love, and nature were common motifs incorporated into jewelry. Hands, hearts, crosses and knots, birds, flowers, trees, and snakes were particularly fashionable.
- Edwardian (1901-1914): Luxury-loving frivolity and wealth brought on ethereal and delicate jewelry with bows, garlands, ribbons and lace. Necklaces began to evolve and become a statement piece.
- Art Nouveau (1890-1915): Bright colors, natural motifs and curved lines created elegant yet simple representations of nature.
- Art Deco (1920-1935): Clean, rigid, geometric shapes made with pearls, gemstone mosaics, lacquer, and invisible setting. This jewelry was meant to be simple, elegant, and practical.
- Retro (1940s): Plastic, glass, wood, enamel, and synthetic stones with motifs of animals, bows, and flowers were used to make eye-catching costume jewelry. Charm bracelets, cocktail rings, and bold stackable bangles were popular.
- Mid-Century (1950s): Costume jewelry from the Retro era was refined and produced with expensive materials. Large, colorful gemstones surrounded by diamonds and long strings of real pearls were popular.
- Modern (1960s and onwards): This era encapsulates all of the powerful trends that came with the 90s, 80s, and on. Jewelry has seen more and more commonalities with sculpture and design.
Choose Charles Schwartz & Son for your Washington, DC fine jewelry needs
All jewelry is beautiful, but we hold antique jewelry close to our hearts. There’s something so special about carrying on a passed-down family heirloom, continuing a unique story, or helping a tradition live on forever. Allow us to help you find the perfect piece to add to your story. No matter what piece of jewelry, you can rest assured knowing our jewelry professionals have taken the time to carefully evaluate each characteristic and tend to all of its needs.
Our jewelry experts take care of every piece of jewelry in our collection, whether it’s scratched, dented, chipped, or worn.
