BY JOHANNAH MASTERS
There’s something about vintage jewelry that feels super-special for Valentine’s Day.
And there couldn’t be a better time to shop for vintage finds, what with the pre-owned jewelry market in full bloom and the price of gold at a record high (which can translate to slightly lower prices for non-new jewels). Add in the growing trend of people wanting meaning, individuality, quality, and craftsmanship in every item they acquire, and vintage jewelry becomes an undeniably alluring category.
True romance can be found in a number of pieces, especially those from the Victorian era, when romantic symbolism mixed with high-quality craftsmanship was at its height in jewelry-making. Hearts are a key motif from the era, as are bows, flowers, and cherubs. But don’t overlook other historical periods—each has its covetable treasures.
A 14k yellow gold and silver ring showcases an alluring pink sapphire and dainty seed pearls in a classic late Victorian “heartfelt” motif, $1,600, Ashley Zhang Jewelry
This vintage 1940s 14k yellow gold necklace features the ultimate floral basket full of gemstones—jade, amethyst, turquoise, coral, tourmaline, citrine, and topaz, $5,400, Alexis Bittar
Top and above: A 14k yellow gold bracelet that features flowers that never fade in rubies, sapphires, and diamonds, $9,400, Lauren DeYoung
These 18k yellow gold earrings embody true love with micromosaic Forget Me Not flowers (a symbol of true love and devotion) and cherubs (symbolizing pure love), $14,600, 1stDIBS
A two-in-one 14k yellow gold pendant/brooch features a lovely Limoges enamel image of Cupid and Psyche and is accented with ruby, pearl, and old mine–cut diamond, $10,895, 1stDIBS
Create your own romantic love story with this 18k yellow gold Victorian booklet bracelet with sapphires and enamel, $7,000, Mahnaz Collection
This 1950s platinum and diamond bow brooch can be worn with or without the surrounding 18k yellow gold insert, $4,800, The Back Vault
The combination of 18k yellow gold, diamonds set in a silver bow, and a vibrant turquoise cabochon heart creates an exquisitely charming ring, $4,350, Wilson’s Estate Jewelry
You can’t go wrong with For Future Reference Vintage diamond and ruby heart pendant necklace, $2,370, Twist