Engagement Ring Stack

Charles Schwartz & Son is home to some of the most unique vintage jewelry in Washington, DC

Looking for something special for that someone special? Wanting to add more pieces to your collection? Charles Schwartz & Son is the place for you. From pendants to engagement rings to watches, we have it all. Our collection of DC vintage jewelry is unlike any other and we’d be thrilled to walk you through each piece’s history.

Our nation’s capital is home to rich history, intriguing people, and important events. People from all over the world stop here and add their own piece to the story. Because of this influence, this city has some of the most unique vintage jewelry in the country. Here you will find jewelry from various time periods made of various metals and gemstones, all with their own interesting quirks and tales.

What is considered vintage jewelry in DC?

Vintage refers to anything between 50 and 100 years old. This time period range includes Art Deco, Retro, Mid-Century, and Modern. We also carry many modern pieces that are vintage-inspired, as the styles from the past have remained popular even now. We tend to find beauty and comfort in the styles of those before us, as they signify valuable ideas, beliefs, cultures, and more. See each period of vintage jewelry‘s common trends below:

  • 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.

What type of DC vintage jewelry pieces does Charles Schwartz & Son have?

The expert jewelers at Charles Schwartz & Son are dedicated to constantly finding and refurbishing new vintage pieces. We have been in the jewelry business for over 100 years and have curated the perfect rotating collection. See the types of vintage jewelry we have below:

  • Pins
  • Bangles
  • Bracelets
  • Brooches
  • Cocktail Rings
  • Coin Purses
  • Cufflinks
  • Earrings
  • Engagement Rings
  • Ladys’ Watches
  • Lockets
  • Men’s Watches
  • Necklaces
  • Pendants
  • Rings
  • Watches
  • Weddings Bands

All jewelry is beautiful, but we hold vintage jewelry close to our heart. There’s something so unique about carrying on a family heirloom, special story, or tradition. Help us 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. We treat our jewelry like family, because that’s what family would do.

Interested in finding DC vintage watches? Or maybe vintage rings in Washington, DC? Visit our website or visit one of our locations today!