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Trifari ‘Alfred Philippe’ Gold Amethyst and Blue Enamel Triple Bell Flowers with Pendant Necklace from N&N Vintage Costume Jewelry
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Today’s emerging jewellery trends prove that vintage never goes out of style. Some of the most refined pieces on the market continue to pay homage to the timeless elegance of vintage jewellery. Nostalgic glamour seems to be the current trend these days, as evidenced by the most recent creations by leading fine jewellery designers. Big, colourful and opulent stones are evocative of the times when bold individuality was celebrated. Jill Burgum, consignment director of jewellery, gemstones & timepieces for Heritage Auction Galleries, says that jewellery follows fashion trends, even when looking at vintage and estate pieces. “Right now 1970s fashions are hot — so is yellow gold in textured forms,” she explains. Vintage styles are decisively in at multiple levels, however this particular market is not always accurately defined. “Vintage” is a widely used term in the jewellery sphere, and yet seems to cover various categories: antique, period, estate, retro and second-hand. While the trend isn’t for everyone, designers and retailers are embracing it, showcasing pieces reminiscent of bygone eras. This is evident in David Webb’s new precious jewels collection, made of colourful jade, emerald, coral and amethysts, or Hemmerle’s seventiesinspired chunky turquoise pendants.
Graff Diamonds proudly showcases a spectacular cascade of magnificent diamonds, as breathtaking as those once delightfully worn by Marie Antoinette of France. Verdura advertises Fulco’s original 1930s Maltese cross cuffs designed for Coco Chanel next to its contemporary version – as impressive, symbolic and timeless as its predecessor. Interestingly enough, the worlds of vintage and antique and contemporary are often closely intertwined. The 26th Biennale des Antiquaires recently held at the Grand Palais in Paris, organized by the National Antique Dealers’ organization, hosted a carefully selected group of prestigious jewellery firms including Cartier, Harry Winston and Van Cleef & Arpels. Each brand showcased collections featuring their most exceptional pieces, and their museum value amongst other treasured antiques. “The work of these jewellers is extraordinary, they present incredible stones, magical settings, the result of a unique expertise,” explained Christian Deydier, host of the Biennale. Catherine Baba, a Parisienne designer by way of Australia, also recently WWW.CANADIANJEWELLER.COM
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