Looking to buy vintage jewelry in Washington DC?
You have come to the right place! Charles Schwartz & Son Jewelers is home to some of the most unique vintage jewelry in Washington DC. We have been based in the nation’s capital for over 100 years and have accumulated a large sum of jewelry knowledge, skill, and experience.
We have a wide selection of vintage jewelry in impeccable condition, ranging in different styles. One of our favorite types of statement jewelry is a vintage cocktail ring.
What is a vintage cocktail ring?
A vintage cocktail ring is a bold, dramatic piece. It makes a statement wherever you go. Typically, a cocktail ring is a one-of-a-kind piece identified by its extravagant size with a great center gemstone, usually accompanied by surrounding smaller gemstones. Gemstones that take center stage tend to be vibrant, such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, diamonds, and more. Semi-precious stones and rhinestones could also be included. The options and pairings of gemstones and metals are endless, which is one of the main reasons why cocktail rings are so unique.
This style of ring is perfect whenever you’re trying to add extra bling to any look. It stands out as a piece of art compared to other pieces of jewelry.
Emerging in the 1920s during the prohibition era, this bold style of jewelry was the perfect display of glamour. The prohibition era was not only the period in which alcohol was illegal to consume, but women were also gaining rights and freedom. The look came back and improved in the 1940s after the Great Depression, complementing the Hollywood lifestyle.
At Charles Schwartz & Son, we offer a wide selection of pieces from every era. Here is a breakdown of the eras our unique pieces originate from:
- Art Deco (1920–1935): The 1920’s is the origin of the cocktail ring. Inspired by society’s recent advances in industry and architecture, leading to striking linear symmetry. Clean, rigid, geometric shapes made with pearls, gemstone mosaics, lacquer, and invisible settings. This jewelry was meant to be simple, elegant, and practical. Known for abstract patterns, ornate detailing, diamond-intensive design, and overall distinctive style.
- Retro (1940s): The establishing era of the vintage cocktail ring style. 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. This era’s style is defined by the big, bold, and oversized designs mimicked by the glamorous, coveted Hollywood lifestyle.
- 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. The style of the vintage cocktail ring evolved in this era as an inspiration for newer pieces.
- 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.
Choosing the right jeweler for your vintage rings in Washington DC
Charles Schwartz & Son has been based in the area for over 100 years, making us among some of the best when it comes to vintage jewelry in DC. We are proud of our skills and knowledge in the industry. We have extensive experience in selling, collecting, and repairing jewelry. We take every customer’s piece and treat it as if it were our own.
When looking to buy vintage jewelry in Washington DC, you have found the right place. Being the oldest jewelry store in the area, you gain an exclusive selection of handpicked vintage jewelry. Our pieces are typically anywhere from 50 to 100 years old and are perfect for your vintage collection.
