Zendaya’s engagement ring, unveiled at the 2025 Golden Globes, has quickly become the talk of the town, blending timeless vintage charm with a contemporary twist. Designed by London-based jeweler Jessica McCormack, the ring features a stunning 5.02-carat cushion-cut diamond set in a unique east-west orientation. But what truly sets this piece apart is its vintage-inspired "button back" setting, which has roots dating back to the Georgian era.

There's something captivating about a jewelry piece that carries a rich history and tells a story of its own. Whether you've inherited a family heirloom or stumbled upon a vintage gem, discovering the age of a jewelry piece adds an extra layer of fascination. In this blog post, we'll guide you through some key elements and techniques to help you identify the age of a jewelry piece and unlock its hidden chronicle.

Step into the enchanting world of plique-à-jour jewelry, where the brilliance of stained glass meets the elegance of fine jewelry. This captivating technique, originating in the late 19th century, brings forth a mesmerizing play of light and color. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricate craftsmanship, unique characteristics, and timeless allure of plique-à-jour jewelry.

Jewelry from the 18th century through today.

Art Nouveau jewelry, born from a desire to break free from traditional norms, introduced a fresh and captivating design aesthetic to the world. Drawing inspiration from nature's enchanting beauty, this remarkable jewelry style employed distinct design elements that set it apart from its predecessors. In this blog post, we delve into the intricate and mesmerizing design elements that define Art Nouveau jewelry, unveiling the secrets behind its enduring allure.

There are many factors that go into the decision to buy a diamond. The 4Cs - cut, color, clarity and carat weight - are used to define the differences between stones and will all play into the cost and appearance of a diamond during the selection process. However, the age of the stone can also be an important element to take into consideration.

Throughout history, certain art movements have left an indelible mark on the world of design. One such movement that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike is Art Deco. Originating in the 1920s and flourishing throughout the 1930s, Art Deco jewelry represents a stunning synthesis of opulence, geometric shapes, and modernist aesthetics. From the exquisite craftsmanship to the use of luxurious materials, Art Deco jewelry holds a timeless allure that continues to inspire contemporary artisans. In this blog post, we delve into the captivating world of Art Deco jewelry, exploring its history, defining characteristics, and enduring legacy.

If a rose by any other name will smell as sweet, what about a diamond?  What’s in the name?  There have been many stages in the history of diamond cutting practices - techniques and new technologies have been developed to enhance the hardest material on Earth to dazzling proportions.  Understanding what is in the name and characteristics behind the look will help to identify the time period in which a diamond was cut which can often help to date a piece of antique jewelry.

The terms Old European cut and Old Mine cut are commonly confused. The majority of diamond dealers are not versed in antique jewelry and often apply a blanket title of “old miner” to all antique diamonds. In actuality, Old Mine Cuts and Old Europeans are quite different.

What’s so great about something vintage inspired?  Wouldn’t the real thing be better? Well, yes and no. It depends on what “better” means to you! There’s no denying the romance of a true vintage piece, but when you’re investing in fine jewelry, there are a few other factors to keep in mind. In this article, I’ll lay out a few reasons why you might choose a vintage inspired piece, so that you can make an informed decision.

The transitional cut is a rare vintage cut that was being cut only for a few decades. Its rarity make some believe that it is just a legend since you will not find a GIA transitional cut in existence today. In the early 20th century, the European Cut was evolving and its evolution lead to the birth of the Transitional Cut.