Thinking of something sentimental, unique and meaningful? Vintage jewellery makes the perfect gift. Finding a gift for that special someone who seemingly ‘has it all’ can seem near impossible. Especially if their cupboards are bursting at the seams, they have impeccable taste and, more often than not, buy themselves what they want.
One idea is to go for something sentimental, unique and meaningful: vintage jewellery. But with so many choices – rings, necklaces, brooches, lockets, earrings and bracelets – how on earth do you start?
Finding the perfect piece of vintage jewellery for another person doesn’t have to be hit and miss (although admittedly it can be!). Here are a few top tips to get you started.
Start With How They Dress
Before you even start to think about which period or type of stone you want to go for, consider what that person would actually wear. Nothing spoils a lovely piece of jewellery more than realising it’ll end up languishing in a drawer because it’s just not their thing.
Think about what they already wear; do they go for warmer or cooler metals? Dainty understated pieces or something more conversation-piece-y? Someone who dresses simply might like the idea of a quirky statement piece to wear on special occasions, whereas someone who dresses more colourfully might appreciate something a little more understated.
When would they wear it?
Would they pop on an extravagant cocktail ring and go out for dinner or attend special events? Are they more of a practical dresser, or do they work with their hands? These are all things to consider, as although a cocktail ring might be perfect for the first person, the second might prefer a smaller pendant or a more sturdy pair of earrings.
If you can’t pop round and spy on their jewellery box, ask a friend or family member what they would suggest, but try to keep it vague (i.e., “What colour metal do you think she prefers? Gold/silver/mix? Does she prefer to wear earrings/rings/necklaces? Is there a particular stone she likes the look of?”).
Character Matters More Than Scale
Unique rather than over the top
When choosing a piece of vintage jewellery for someone else, try to opt for something unique rather than extravagant. Chances are you’re not going to pick up a piece quite as extravagant as they’d treat themselves to anyway, however, every vintage piece is different, so there’s lots of scope for choosing something unique. Look out for unusual motifs, engraved settings/borders, hand-cut stones, unusual clasps, textured metalwork, etc.
Have a think about what makes a piece special, whether that’s:
- The stone – is there something natural about the inclusions that takes your breath away?
- The setting – are there lovely engraved or ornate details?
- The shape – unusual but wearable?
- A particular motif – something symbolic but discreet?
- The original purpose – something that was more than just jewellery, e.g., a locket
Certain types of jewellery lend themselves to gifting better than others, e.g., lockets, which the recipient can personalise later on; brooches, ideal for fastening coats, dresses, scarves and hats; and signet rings, not necessarily for people who wear lots of rings but those who appreciate heirlooms and objects with staying power.
Rather than going for the biggest and blingiest piece you can find, opt for something a little off centre, not necessarily unusual, but just that little bit different.
Vintage doesn’t necessarily mean fusty!
Although you don’t need to know the difference between Art Deco and Edwardian, which you can find more info at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_architectural_styles, when picking a piece of vintage jewellery as a gift, it can help to understand the overall feel of a piece before diving straight in. Some pieces are more romantic, ornate, sentimental, understated, quirky, minimalist, bold, dramatic, girly, formal, architectural, streamlined, and geometric; there are the list going on.
Rather than labelling a piece with a particular era, try and work out what the overall feel is. If that special someone collects antiques, loves old books, letter writing and gardens, then perhaps a more ornate romantic floral/scrollwork encrusted with coloured vintage stones piece would be right up their street. Alternatively, if they dress smart and minimal and decorate their home with clean lines and unfussy details, perhaps something with a single stone and no surface detail would be more appropriate.
Trends can help steer you in the right direction, however, when picking a gift for someone, try to keep an eye out for trends and styles that remind you of that person.
Check the Condition Before Deciding
Vintage jewellery condition check
Most vintage jewellery has a past life, sometimes several. Although marks of wear and age can add to a piece’s charm, it’s still worth doing a condition check and asking the seller of vintage jewellery to explain any visible repairs before you decide. Remember, it’s not just about the looks, you want that special someone to feel comfortable and confident wearing it.
Some things to look out for:
- Stones, check the settings/prongs/bezels/claws are secure
- Cracks/chips/loose stones etc
- Broken/worn links/clasps, check fastenings work. If the clasp is particularly delicate, only consider purchasing if you know that special someone appreciates the occasional extra care.
- Have there been any previous repairs? Are there any modern parts? Vintage jewellery isn’t off-limits just because it’s been repaired in the past, a good sympathetic repair can keep a piece wearable for years to come. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that poorly done or unsuccessful repairs can detract from the overall appeal and value of a piece.
Make the Final Choice
Aim to find a piece of vintage jewellery for that special someone that has individuality and character. You don’t need to break the bank finding the most unusual piece of vintage jewellery you can lay your hands on; however, you want to find a piece that will suit their style, one they can add to their collection and enjoy, rather than a piece they’ll feel obliged to pass on to someone else. Imagine unwrapping the piece. Would that special someone love it, or would you love it? Vintage jewellery makes the perfect gift, just make sure it’s a vintage piece they’ll love.
Vintage jewellery gift buying checklist
- Imagine unwrapping the piece – is it “them”?
- Check the condition
- Ask about any previous repairs
- Keep the receipt and pass on any care instruction
