Designer vintage jewellery is particularly significant for many reasons; combining aesthetic, cultural, and historical values that make for highly desirable pieces for jewellery lovers and collectors. Often reflecting on the trends that were before us, a vintage necklace can add much historical value to a collection, showcasing the designs and techniques that are rare or no longer in use, representing a high level of artistry and skill from past eras. A further attraction to the allure of vintage jewellery is that, unlike contemporary items, necklaces and pendants in particular frequently have distinctive designs that add to their appeal and make them a stand-out accessory. Each piece is a reflection of the period in which it was created in and offers a special connection to the past while still being considered significant and cherished today. Vintage pieces often have a timeless appeal that transcends current fashion trends, wearing a designer vintage necklace expresses unique style and stands out from pieces that are found in today’s market. Let’s explore some of the top vintage necklace designers you should know.
1. Van Cleef & Arpels
Characterised by their timeless, imaginative and often standout pieces, Van Cleef & Arpels are a jewellery brand founded upon the marriage of Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef in 1895.
The silhouettes of the four-leafed clover pieces usually spring to mind when you think of this luxury brand. The line is currently regarded as the most well-known and identifiable among consumers and jewellery enthusiasts after six distinct variations of this timeless design were introduced, using various materials and structures.
Van Cleef & Arpels carve out a niche for themselves in the designer market, and the distinctive designs that set their jewellery apart from competing products are what give it its worth. The designs combine whimsical patterns with vibrant gemstones to illustrate the artistic and light side of jewellery while also incorporating cultural influences and nature.
While the classic designs remain desirable, the brand set the hearts of red-carpet jewellery lovers racing at the 2015 Oscars as Margot Robbie showcased a striking 76 carat ‘zip’ necklace. Hollywood start, actresses, and members of royal families all adore the designer necklaces as accessories. The Duchess of Cambridge, Reese Witherspoon, Adele, and numerous other powerful ladies have been sighted in the classic styles.
2. David Webb
The widely recognised luxury brand, David Webb, is renowned for its striking and unique designs in jewels. First created in 1948 by American jewellery David Webb, nature, mythology, and ancient cultures served as the primary sources of inspiration for the luxury pieces.
From his first design which was a copper ashtray signed with a spider and web, to becoming First Lady Jackie Kennedy’s choice to make the official Gifts of State, it wasn’t long before all of Hollywood wore Webb’s desired animal bracelets.
The designer necklaces that were the most sought-after were his glamour packed pieces, the architectural inspired accessories saw chunky necklace links, vibrant colours and bold pendants.
Today, David Webb jewellery is widely regarded as incredibly well-made, and extremely valuable. After passing away in 1975, Webb’s legacy and vision outlived him, and it is the incredible placement of diamonds and attention to detail that makes David Webb jewellery so valuable.
3. Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany & Co. is one of the most well-known luxury jewellery and speciality retailers in the world. Founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tifany and John B. Young in New York City, the pair started as a ‘stationary and fancy goods emporium’ before cementing themselves as the go-to place for women in search for striking luxury jewellery.
While jewellery trends come and go, one thing that has remained consistent is the signature tiffany blue box, considered as one of the most recognisable packaging’s in the world. But when it comes to the moment which helped cement its status as a symbol of luxury and sophistication, the classic film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, is really what brought the brand out the other end of the Great Depression.
It was only up from here for the brand, continuing to evolve and adapt to changing trends and customer demands with iconic collections that maintain the brands reputation for timeless elegance while also embracing a more contemporary and accessible image.
4. Cartier
Louis-Francois Cartier established the fames French company, well known for its fine jewels, in Paris 1847. The company soon gained a reputation for their innovative designs and skilled craftmanship.
The Love collection was introduced in the 1970s, featuring their iconic crew motif symbolising faithfulness and devotion, the piece comes with a gold screwdriver kept by the significant other, so only they could open it. This design became so popular that New York City hospitals kept these ‘love screws’ in their wards, in case it had to be removed in an emergency.
One of the most lavish and significant items produced by the renowned company is the Cartier Diamond and Platinum Necklace. Crafted in 1932, the piece was originally set with around 3,000 diamonds, including a 234.65 carat De Beers diamond. This necklace honours Cartier’s inventive heritage as the first jewellers that successfully used platinum in jewellery creation.
From red carpet looks to various royal tiaras, Cartier has a long history of serving members of the royal family and Hollywood stars and has been the jewellery of choice for many years now.
5. Boucheron
One of the oldest French jewellery brands, Boucheron, was founded in 1857 and is renowned for its elaborate workmanship, stunning gemstone use, and themes inspired by nature. The brand prides itself on many ‘firsts’, 26 to be exact, all collaborating to reveal their unparalleled expertise.
Being the first to create a necklace with no clasp (the Question Mark necklace), creating a 159-carat sapphire necklace to exactly match someone’s deep-blue eyes, and Boucheron even wins the race of a jeweller bold enough to engrave diamond with flowers and other nature inspired designs.
Few pieces have remained popular as long as the Question Mark necklace by Boucheron. Created in 1879, it was a major invention in the jewellery industry and the perfect representation of the house’s talent for fine craftsmanship and classic design.
These designers have each contributed to the evolution of jewellery design in unique ways, and their vintage necklaces remain timeless symbols of style and artistry. Whether you’re a collector or simply an admirer, knowing these designers can deepen your appreciation for stunning necklaces as well as vintage earrings and vintage bracelets.
