2008
1STDIBS LAUNCHES VINTAGE FINE JEWELRY.
Vintage jewelry will always be favored by those in search of timeless design. 1stDibs’ extraordinary and deep assortment of period and antique jewelry has proven an evergreen source for one-of-a-kind pieces that express individual style.
This important diamond brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels is an exemplary Art Deco piece from the heyday of the iconic French jewelry house. The flexible ribbon of 287 diamonds set into geometric mounts was crafted by Rubel Frères, a historic Paris workshop responsible for many of the period’s most famous jewels, including this example of the special pieces available on 1stDibs.
This important diamond brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels is an exemplary Art Deco piece from the heyday of the iconic French jewelry house. The flexible ribbon of 287 diamonds set into geometric mounts was crafted by Rubel Frères, a historic Paris workshop responsible for many of the period’s most famous jewels, including this example of the special pieces available on 1stDibs.
Cartier created some of the most iconic jewelry designs that defined this era.
SELLER SPOTLIGHT
This world-renowned gallery is the crown jewel for shoppers on the hunt for very rare and collectible pieces in New York City. Helmed by Lee Siegelson, a third-generation gem and jewelry dealer, the firm has an eye for acquiring important, provenance-rich pieces. Siegelson is intimately familiar with all the details concerning the origin of its offerings — and includes a full dossier with each important piece it sells.
Diamond & Sapphire
Bracelet, 1920s
Diamond & Platinum
Cocktail Ring, 1920s
Cartier Diamond & Platinum
Watch, 1930
Onyx, Diamond & Platinum
Earrings, ca. 1925
Glamour in the Jazz Age
Freedom-loving flappers and futurism contributed to the beauty of the Roaring Twenties, which resulted in bolder, geometric Art Deco shapes and sweeping lines influenced by distant cultures.
We Adorn You
Jewelry historian Vanessa Cron reaches back through the decades for unconventional pieces by iconic designers that still resonate today.
We Adorn You
Hemmerle Aquamarine & Agate Earrings, 2000s
In the jewelry world, the best craftsmen are called grandes mains (“great hands”), because of the painstaking work involved in the most precious little pieces. It takes decades to master some techniques, and recent innovations have made many ancient ones appear obsolete. Not for Hemmerle, though. The German jewelry house has adamantly prioritized quality over quantity in its collections. Bead knitting had not been used for decades when Hemmerle decided that the incredible effect the process creates was worth the amount of time and care required. These bead-knitted earrings are emblematic of the house of Hemmerle, of the incredible history of jewelry craftsmanship and of their time.
Aldo Cipullo Carnelian Hamsa Pendant, 1974
Although best known for his Love and Juste un clou bangles for Cartier, Aldo Cipullo had a far wider influence on the field. His unconventional approach, transforming industrial objects into beautiful jewels, still inspires many designers. Proving the power of his vision, this Hamsa pendant turns an ancient symbol of protection into a timeless amulet. Refined and meaningful, it is a perfect piece to pass on from generation to generation.
Ibe Dahlquist for Georg Jensen Silver Archive Bracelet, 1960s
Danish silversmith Georg Jensen revolutionized the jewelry world. The house he established has introduced too many incredible Scandinavian designers to list. Jensen pieces always seem au courant, whether created in the 1950s or yesterday. This bracelet by Swedish designer Ibe Dalhquist is a fine example of the house’s work, a piece that can be worn day or night, regardless of the wearer’s age, gender or personal style. This modernist jewel has passed the test of time with flying colors.
Cartier Hand and Flower Brooch, 1938
“When a man wants to send you flowers, always say, ‘My florist is Cartier.’ “ This quote from Christian Dior muse Mitzah Bricard finds its perfect illustration in this charming brooch. By beautifully and movingly embodying the presentation of a floral gift, it gives new life to the somewhat clichéed gesture. A sentimental jewel that speaks volumes, it is a lucky charm, a token of love and a classic.
Alexander Calder Hammered Silver Necklace, ca. 1940
To truly appreciate jewelry as an art form, look at the work of Alexander Calder. Calder made all his pieces himself, using brass and silver but no gemstones and employing a simple set of pliers in place of classic metalworking techniques. For him this was more than a sideshow to his art. His hundreds of jewels, made as gifts for his wife, are groundbreaking achievements, earning him a place among the great jewelers of the 20th century and opening the haute joaillerie door to jewelers who don’t fit the traditional mold. Art you can wear, his pieces are unique, modern and iconic — a perfect fit for any art collector.
FROM INTROSPECTIVE
The passion that many of us have for collecting precious gems can rightly be described as life-changing. For five sellers, it even led them to switch careers or carry on a family legacy.
21 Years of Finding the One
Written in the Stars
"This felt like 'my' ring from the beginning. The rose gold band complements the gems perfectly — in a softer way than silver or gold. The gems encrusting the emerald are partially shaped like Art Deco thunderbolts which makes the ring feel substantial without the emerald itself needing to be large. And, it was listed as a Gatsby-style ring, that's one of my favorite novels!"
Kim, 1stDibs Customer
