The legacy of luxury estate jewelry in DC
Welcome to Charles Schwartz & Son Jewelers, the premier destination for luxury estate jewelry in Washington DC. With a century-long legacy as the area’s oldest jeweler, we present an exquisite collection that seamlessly blends history and sophistication, offering a curated selection of timeless elegance.
Our vintage jewelry collection is a symphony of eras, styles, and unparalleled artistry. From ornate Victorian pieces to sleek Art Deco designs, let’s explore the spectrum of treasures. Every one of our estate jewelry pieces in DC has its own story of craftsmanship and refinement.
Unveiling the eras of DC luxury estate jewelry
Understanding the distinct characteristics and historical context of each era enhances your appreciation for timeless beauty when you buy estate jewelry in DC.
- Georgian Era (1717-1837): From Rococo to Neoclassical influences, Georgian jewelry’s handcrafted metalwork and orn
ate details exude sophistication. Despite pieces from this era being rare, pieces featuring flower motifs and dazzling gemstones still enchant collectors. - Victorian Era (1837-1901): Spanning the Early, Mid, and Late Victorian subsets, each period reflects the societal shifts in Queen Victoria’s life. Styles include romantic nature-inspired designs, mourning jewelry, and the emergence of practical, feminine motifs.
- Art-Nouveau Era (1890-1910): Vibrant, fluid designs inspired by nature and Japanese art. This era of jewelry introduced unconventional materials such as enamel and shell, achieving colors extending beyond traditional gemstones.
- Edwardian Era (1901-1915): Innovations in gemstone cuts and metalwork techniques defined this era. Delicate filigree, lace-inspired designs in platinum and diamonds characterized the jewelry, showcasing elegance and intricate craftsmanship.
- Art Deco Era (1915-1940): This era is marked by bold geometric patterns and abstract designs, Art Deco jewelry mirrored societal advancements and wealth during the Jazz Age. The era’s symmetrical, diamond-centric pieces embody striking elegance.
- Retro Era (1945-1960): Retro jewelry embraced oversized, playful designs emulating Hollywood glamour. Bold motifs and colorful gemstones reflected a cheerful spirit in jewelry.
Metals, Gems, and Design: Clues to Era Identification
When shopping for the perfect piece of estate jewelry in Washington DC, these clues help us identify what era the piece is from:
- Metal(s): The type and karat weight of metals used in jewelry can reveal much about its age and origin.
- Gemstone(s): Specific gemstone popularity varied across different eras, offering insights into a piece’s timeline
- Design Motifs: Subtle details, motifs, and styles present in estate jewelry serve as indicators of their era or age of origin.
With over a century of experience, our experts categorize estate jewelry by era. We are dedicated to guiding you in finding the perfect piece, offering personalized assistance every step of the way.
Exclusive historic finds: Buy estate jewelry in DC
Explore our extensive collection featuring renowned designer names such as Cartier, Rolex, Tiffany & Co., and more. Each piece has been meticulously evaluated and handpicked by our professionals, standing the test of time and offering a unique addition to your collection.
Our collection includes engagement rings, brooches, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, watches, and more. Visit us to find the perfect piece for yourself or a loved one, steeped in history and elegance.
