Glossary for Vintage Tom Vintage Jewellery Collections

Looking to expand your knowledge of vintage jewellery? Vintage Tom's glossary is the perfect place to start. This comprehensive guide includes definitions of commonly used terms in the vintage jewellery world, helping you to better understand the pieces you're looking at.

 

• Agate - a colourful variety of quartz. It is used in jewellery and often comes in shades of red, black, violet, green and blue.
• Alexandrite - a rare gemstone with a high level of hardness. It usually changes colour from bluish-green to purplish-red depending on the light source.
• All Rings - an extensive collection of vintage and antique rings in different metals such as gold, silver or platinum.
• Amber - a material made up of fossilised tree resin which has been used since antiquity as gemstones and for ornamental purposes.
• Amethyst - a semi-precious gemstone that comes in various shades of purple from light lavender to dark royal purple. It is also the birthstone for February.
• Aquamarine - an ocean blue gemstone renowned for its clarity and beauty; it is also the birthstone for March.
• Art Deco – referring to the decorative arts movement dating back to the early 20th century which embraced bold geometrics and geometric shapes together with luxurious materials such as platinum, gold and diamonds.
• Art Nouveau – a style characterised by curves inspired by organic forms such as leaves swirling around elements like snake motifs; used mainly during 1895 – 1905 in artwork, jewellery design and furniture making.
• Bloodstone – also known as heliotrope, it’s a variety of chalcedony quartz with distinctive green hues dotted with red spots.
• Bracelets – a versatile jewellery item that can either be worn around the wrist or draped around it for an elegant look.
• Breitling – luxury Swiss watchmaker which produces timepieces which are renowned for their accuracy and robustness.
• Brooches – an ornament used for fastening clothing, featuring decorative designs often set with gems and metals such as gold, silver, brass and bronze.
• Cameo – a type of jewellery or small object carved in relief depicting two-dimensional images such as portraits, landscapes or allegorical scenes.
• Cartier – luxury French jeweller and watchmaker known worldwide for its intricate yet timeless designs.
• Chain – referring to chains of different lengths commonly used in necklaces and bracelets which can be woven together, collared together or made from interlocking links; usually made from metals like gold or silver but contemporary styles use plastic or leather too.
• Charms - a small object intended to bring luck and good fortune when hung on bracelets or necklaces; typically shaped like animals, food items and other objects with symbolic meaning attached to them.
• Citrine - an amber coloured gemstone believed to have many healing properties due to its bright yellow hue; it is also the birthstone for November.
• Clearance Jewellery Items - discounted pieces from our collections featuring products such as rings, necklaces and earrings in precious metals like gold and silver at reduced prices.
• Coral: Coral is a red or pinkish-orange coloured mineral found in warm, shallow waters. It is commonly used to make jewellery and other decorative pieces.
• Cornelian: Cornelian is a semi-precious stone found in various different colours including yellow, orange, brown and red. It has been used to make jewellery since the Roman era.
• Crystal: Crystal is a clear quartz gemstone which has been cut into various shapes. It can be used to make jewellery or as an art deco piece.
• Cufflinks: Cufflinks are small decorative accessories that are worn on the cuffs of dress shirts or blouses. They often feature intricate designs and may include a precious stone like diamonds or sapphires.
• Designer: Designer jewellery is made by renowned fashion designers such as Christian Dior, Alexander McQueen and Jean Paul Gaultier. These pieces are usually expensive and are highly sought after by collectors.
• Diamond Rings: Diamond rings are a classic choice for engagement rings as they symbolize love, commitment and eternity . The size of the diamond will depend on the budget but it should always meet certain quality standards before being purchase.
• Diamonds: Diamonds are one of the most popular gems used to create beautiful pieces of jewellery due to their durability , brilliance and sparkle . Depending on its grade, it can range from colourless to fancy yellow , pink or blue.
• Dress Rings: Dress rings are statement pieces that are worn as part of formal attire or special occasions such as cocktail parties or weddings . They typically feature large gemstones set in gold or silver accents, making them very eye-catching items that can instantly add glamour to any outfit.
• Edwardian: the Edwardian Era was between 1901 - 1910 , which saw extravagant designs with intricate details seen in both costume and fine jewellery pieces popular amongst wealthy women at the time. These styles featured delicate filigree work along with bright pastel hues from stones like opal, pearl, turquoise & coral .
• Garnet: Garnet is an attractive red gemstone which occurs naturally in shades from deep burgundy to paler pinks & oranges. Its hardness makes it suitable for use in all types of jewellery such as necklaces & earrings but also for modern beads & brooches.
• Georgian: The Georgian period (1714 - 1830) focused on geometric shapes & symmetrical design creating bold yet simple necklace & ring sets set with sparkling diamonds alongside beautifully polished coloured gems including aquamarine & tourmaline
• Gifts: Jewellery makes an ideal gift choice ,whether you’re looking for something special for a loved one or just wanting something unique to mark a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday present Choose from our collection available today.
• Gold: Gold has long been prized throughout history due its rareness beauty & strength making it a perfect material when crafting luxury fine jewellery such as bracelets bangles chains charms pendants earrings necklaces etc.
• Jade: Jade is an ornamental green gemstone associated with fertility, success, healing, wisdom, luck, courage, protection & prosperity. It has traditionally been mined for centuries throughout Asia where it comes in varying shades from light grass green to dark forest green.
• Jet: Jet is often mistaken for black glass however this organic material was formed over 60 million years ago when huge amounts carbon pressure combined with heat resulting in this lustrous coallike substance which was then carved into cameos intaglio & mourning jewels
• Kunzite: Kunzite is pinkish purple transparent crystal that changes colour depending on the angle at which you view it. It was named after George Frederick Kunz a mineralogist who discovered it the stone. It works well when paired against cooler tones like clear quartz topaz etc.
• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis lazuli also known simply as ‘lapis’ is an opaque deep blue variety of metamorphic rock that contains flecks fool’s gold. It has been believed have spiritual properties since ancient times often resulting in its use within religious artefacts.
• Lolite: Lolite gets its name from JW Lolo who first discovered this dazzling blue gemstone back 1876. With its fairly strong hardness rating lolite works great within engagement ring solitaire.
• Malachite: Malachite is an opaque green gemstone with a swirling pattern of different shades. Its strong symbolism of protection and balance makes it very popular in jewellery pieces like rings and necklaces.
• Marcasite: Marcasite is a black or grey coloured stone made up of pyrite crystals. It is often used to make statement pieces like brooches and earrings.
• Metals: Metals are the most common material used to create jewellery due to their malleability and affordability. Popular metals include gold, silver, platinum and palladium which are usually alloyed with other metals for added strength and reduced cost.
• Modern: Modern jewellery uses cutting-edge design techniques to combine classic aesthetic styles with new technologies. From minimalist designs featuring cubic zirconia stones through to geometric shapes & colourful gems the modern trend has something for everyone.
• Moonstone: Moonstone is a magical looking semi-precious gem which has been treasured since ancient times Known for its soft white sheen under moonlight this stone works well within unique pieces of bridal jewellery as well as seasonal styles such as opulent winter looks.
• Morganite: Morganite is one of the rarest gems on earth but luckily doesn’t come with an equally hefty price tag. Its pastel pink hue adds instant warmth & charm making it ideal for creating contemporary engagement rings, solitaires & matching wedding bands.
• Moss Agate: Moss Agate is a beautiful formless agate that has quartz mixed with dendritic forms (known as ‘moss’) giving it a captivating silky texture. This gem can range from light greens to blues making for some truly striking motifs when crafted into bespoke pieces.
• Necklaces: Whether you’re shopping around for yourself or looking for that special gift that will be treasured forever, necklaces have always been popular amongst all ages. Choose from our selection today, all handcrafted using only the finest materials.
• New Jewellery: Uncover something new from our constantly evolving selection including exclusive collections from emerging designers You'll find bold statement pieces & delicate everyday essentials suitable for any occasion.
• New Pendants: Find your perfect pendant necklace within our collection of new pendants today - choose from white gold set with tiny diamonds or big bold exuberant designs.
• Omega: Omega watches are luxurious timepieces renowned for their superior quality, precision and craftsmanship. The brand has a rich history, producing some of the most iconic pieces including the Moonwatch worn by Apollo astronauts in 1969. Each piece is designed with excellence in mind, making Omega watches a timeless choice for style and sophistication.
• Onyx: Onyx is believed be symbolic of protection against negative energy while also helping increase strength focus & determination. This black gemstone is often combined with lighter tones such as diamonds or pearls creating striking contrast within luxury rings earrings etc.
• Opal: Opal is one of nature’s most fascinating gems thanks its everchanging array colours. Depending on how light travels through its structure. Make sure you wear this popular gem regularly otherwise it may begin losing its precious glimmering hues.
• Other Watches: Our watch collection features timepieces from many different eras gorgeous vintage classics and modern designs. Whether you’re after something chic sophisticated or simply stylish we have something here just for you.
• Paua Shell: Paua shell originates from New Zealand & Australia where the dark waters provide an ideal home environment. They are most recognisable due to their vivid iridescent blue rainbow colours.
• Pearl: Pearls are renowned for their timeless elegance perfectly encapsulating traditional glamour. These pure organic gems come in several varieties offering subtly different shades sizes characteristics etc.
• Pendants: Pendants are decorative pieces that hang from a necklace or chain and come in many different styles. From simple solitaire pendants to elaborate designs featuring diamonds, pearls, and coloured stones, there is something for every taste.
• Peridot: Peridot is an olive green gemstone with dazzling flashes of light when exposed to sunlight. It is the August birthstone which makes it popular amongst those born this month.
• Pink Sapphire: Pink sapphire is a pink variety of corundum (sapphire) that ranges in colour from pale blushing pink to deep rose red. It can be cut into various shapes such as round brilliant, oval, square etc, making it suitable for both contemporary & vintage jewellery designs.
• Retro : Retro jewellery has seen a great resurgence since the turn of the century, blending classic styles from past decades with current fashions to create unique & eye catching statement pieces. From art deco inspired rings through to 70’s style pendants & bracelets you'll find something to suit all tastes here.
• Rings: Our selection of vintage and antique rings features detailed workmanship and artistry using only the most exquisite materials. From sleek engagement rings through to colourful gem stone dress rings you're sure to find something special here that will last a lifetime.
• Rolex: One of the most iconic & prestigious brands Rolex stands for luxury, heritage and quality. Here at Vintage Tom we have some rare finds – many dating back over 50 years - so take your time browsing until you find something truly unique that speaks volumes about your individual style.
• Rose Gold: Rose gold adding warmth & charm thanks its subtle rosey hue. Renowned as being one of kinder metals on skin due its copper content rose gold is ideal choice for those who suffer allergies. Opt for striking combination two tones or keep it simple solid colours - either way these luxurious gems will soon become your go-to jewels.
• Ruby: Ruby symbolises passion energy enthusiasm courage & protection. A perfect gift item or self-purchase when wanting communicate these feelings. The Ruby can be cut into several shapes however oval tends be most popular as gives off fiery brilliance.
• Sales: Our Sales collection features fabulous items with discounted prices on select lines ranging from antique jewellery right up modern designer watches.
• Sapphire: Sapphire symbolises wisdom nobility trust faith serenity sincerity & virtue. This precious gemstone available colours range red towards darker blues hues making them ideal creating customised engagement rings, wedding bands also great for fashion items like cufflinks brooches etc.
• Service: We offer repair services all our Vintage Tom products. As part partnership as an independent service centre we provide full refurbishment including spare parts replacement testing additional engraving any other requests may have. Contact us details more information regarding service.
• Silver: Silver's warm tone brings forth timeless elegance while remaining affordable Stunningly crafted using 925 sterling silver each piece carries sophisticated appeal Whether shopping yourself or giving someone special silver always make perfect gift Why not explore what else found in collection today?
• Smoky Quartz: Smoky quartz is a semi-precious gemstone best known for its distinctive smoky hue, which ranges in colour from light greyish brown to deep blackish brown. Its popularity lies in how sparkling cuts can be used to create beautiful bespoke pieces such as bracelets and necklaces.
• Spinel: Spinel is a gemstone with a high refractive index, making it sparkle like diamonds. It comes in many colors, including pink, blue, yellow and red.
• Synthetics: Synthetic gems are created in laboratories to look like natural gems but at a fraction of the cost. They are becoming increasingly popular in vintage jewellery sets due to their durability and colourfastness.
• Tag Heuer: Tag Heuer is a Swiss watchmaker founded in 1860 that specializes in luxury watches made from gold, steel, and titanium.
• Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a purple-blue stone found only in Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro region. Its unique appearance and rarity make it highly sought after gemstone for vintage jewellery designs.
• Tigers Eye: Tigers Eye is a golden-brown stone characterized by its distinctive banded patterns. The stone was first discovered in Ancient Rome and was used as amulets or good luck charms believed to ward off negative energy.
• Topaz: Topaz is the birthstone of November and comes in several colors including pink, blue, yellow, orange, brown and green but the most prized color is Imperial topaz which has an intense orange-red hue.
• Tourmaline: Tourmaline is found all over the world ranging from pink to deep forest greens with every color connecting to certain spiritual beliefs associated with it such as peace or balance.
• Turquoise: Turquoise stones have been used for centuries by Native American tribes for its protective powers attributed to healing illnesses or health issues believed to be caused by bad spirits.
• Victorian: Victorian jewellery designs were influenced heavily by culture during this period such as naturalistic pieces featuring animals or bugs carved into precious metals such as gold. Rose cut diamonds set into elaborate filigree settings became popular during this era too.
• Vintage: Vintage jewellery is beautiful and timeless. Each piece has a unique story, made with exquisite materials and crafted with skill. From statement earrings to art deco-inspired necklaces, there's something for everyone in the world of vintage. You can find pieces dating back centuries or opt for modern takes on vintage designs - they are a perfect way to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit.
• Watches: Watches were usually made out of metal bands with round dials featuring Roman numerals and delicate engravings on them along with bright colored Austrian crystals embellishing them alongside mother of pearl faces that peek through intricate designs engraved around them creating beautiful timepieces you wouldn't see today..
• Wedding Rings: Wedding rings symbolize love between two partners; traditionally they’re made out of gold however contemporary wedding rings nowadays come encrusted with diamonds or other sparkly gems customizing this token of eternal love further accommodating any budget type..
• White Gold : White Gold is pure gold that has been alloyed with nickel silver copper platinum zinc palladium rhodium giving it an ivory color tone, perfect for more intricate designs that utilize large amounts of metal without being too heavy.
• Zirconnatural: Zirconnatural stones possess similar properties to diamonds optically speaking but they lack one important factor : hardness which makes them ideal candidates for milligrain setting where light scratches will not decrease their sparkle after long years wearing them.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us for any questions you may have about our products or services.

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