How To Wear Vintage Jewelry, Stylishly 

Wearing vintage jewelry adds a touch of nostalgia and uniqueness to any outfit. Vintage pieces often have intricate designs and details that are not commonly found in modern jewelry. To wear vintage jewelry stylishly, it's important to follow some guidelines. 

First, think about the piece of jewelry you are wearing. Rings are filled with symbolism and meaning. In western culture, engagement and wedding rings go on the left ring finger. While in other parts of the world, many cultures wear them on the right. When you own a one-of-a-kind vintage ring without marital connection, wear them on a middle finger, thumb, or the opposite hand of what would be your ring finger. 

This Platinum and Sapphire ring from our estate collection is in its original Art Deco setting and features unique cuts of round and baguette diamonds with an approximately 212 carat Blue Cabachon Sapphire with gorgeous color ($27,000).

When selecting a necklace, the primary factor to consider is the neckline of your clothing. Necklines with a deep plunge can accommodate longer chains, whereas sweetheart necklines pair better with shorter pieces. If you're uncertain about which necklace style to choose a vintage lariat or a knotted necklace with a small pendant can complement most necklines and fashion styles.

When deciding which earrings to wear, consider their color, length, and shape. Do they match your style? Long and large earrings work great for people with short or styled-back hair. Statement vintage earrings are best worn alone – avoid other large pieces to draw attention to the beautiful earrings you are wearing for the night. 

Moreover, when choosing which vintage jewelry to wear it is also important to consider the occasion, jewelry material, necklines, and hairstyle. 

Diamonds and pearls make for a beautiful combination. Do you have any pieces in your collection that could create a look like this?

In the past, proper jewelry etiquette said not to mix metals. But over time the rules have changed, and today you are free to wear gold, silver, and other metals to create new and unique jewelry combinations. It is a popular trend and a great way to incorporate both old and new pieces. It adds visual interest and allows you to showcase your style. 

Our collection of diamond butterfly jewelry is great for mixing and matching with your estate pieces. The romantic 18kt white gold and 0.39CTW diamond large butterfly necklace ($2,500) pairs beautifully with our butterfly diamond earrings that are available in both white and yellow gold ($4,065).

Our JudeFrances Mixed Metal Wide Band Cigar Style Bangle features a row of repeated white diamond quads with a bezel set milgrain detail that highlights the bright sterling silver and signature brushed JFJ finish. The bangle is trimmed in 18k yellow gold beading for an added pop of color ($2,800). 

Layering and stacking are other great ways to combine old with new. Your collection is your pride and joy, and leaving a piece behind can be difficult. By layering multiple necklaces or stacking rings and bracelets you can create an eye-catching look. The more layers you use, the more attention your look will draw. Your necklaces will influence the type of style your outfit evokes, as well. If you dream of being a bit adventurous with your vintage necklaces experiment with layering statement pieces for a boldly extravagant appearance.

Layer estate tennis necklaces with modern station necklaces for visual interest.

Have old charms from your estate charms bracelets? Add them to your necklaces! Mystique can help you organize your neck mess layers to incorporate old and new!

To create an eye-catching look for the evening, play with jewelry colors. Use gemstones in different colors to add variety and elevate your appearance. For a subtle look, use colors in the same family, while contrasting colors like red rubies and green emeralds create a bold vintage look. However, be careful not to overwhelm your look with too much color. 

Stunning sapphire and diamond estate jewelry add brilliant color to your look. Find these pieces at our upcoming Estate Jewelry Show!

Experimenting with different textures is a great way to mix old and new jewelry. You can pair a vintage pearl necklace with a modern gemstone choker or combine a delicate gold bracelet with a chunky chain-link bracelet. This adds depth and dimension to your look, creating a unique and personalized style.

Picture 10 Our Uneek Gatsby Charm Diamond Bracelet in 18k rose gold features 29 round diamonds with a combined approximate weight of 0.35ct round diamonds in a fascinating setting. ($1,695).

Finally, when it comes to mixing old and new jewelry, don't be afraid to make a statement. Choose a bold and eye-catching piece, such as an oversized estate cocktail ring or a modern necklace. However, it's important to keep the rest of your jewelry understated to allow the statement piece to stand out and be the focal point of your look.

Our adorable 18k yellow gold owl featuring tiger eyes and diamonds makes the perfect statement piece. 

Looking to add more vintage and estate jewelry to your collection? Join our Estate Jewelry Event next week! 

Do you have your own estate jewelry lying around? Sell, trade, or upgrade with Mystique!

Mystique Jewelers is excited to help you refresh your jewelry wardrobe and will buy your gold, platinum, diamond, and precious gemstone pieces; sell them on consignment; trade you for something new; or help you integrate your old jewelry into a new custom piece. 

Please note that all decisions for purchase/consignment will be based on our selective standards of high-quality, authentic, beautiful, and timeless jewelry.

Elizabeth Mandros

Owner | Mystique Jewelers

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Featuring old world styles, textures in gold, and styles that are rich yet perfect for everyday wear. Mystique Jewelers evolved from that of custom goldsmith shop into a truly sophisticated boutique, featuring the most coveted designers’ lines such as: Jude Frances, Alberto Parada, Jaime Joseph, Lauren K, KC Designs, and Beverly K as well as creating “one of kind” designs that are timeless, heirloom, and classic. Planning on getting engaged? Our diamond experts, master goldsmith, and designers on the premises will assist you in creating a truly remarkable, one-of-a-kind engagement ring. 

123 S. Fairfax Street                 112 W Washington Street

Alexandria, VA 22314                Middleburg, VA 20117

703.836.1401                            540.687.3100


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