10 Must-Have Pieces For Your Vintage Designer Jewelry Collection

Creating an assortment of vintage designer jewelry is more than a passion — it is an art, in fact. Every piece tells a story, evokes an era, and shows the brilliance of originators in the art of fashion. Whether you are a newbie in collecting or about to streamline and organize your carefully delimited array, it is imperative to know which pieces to include for a good elevated collection.

At Gilded Trifles, the rare and authentic designer jewelry of days gone by is our specialty. So here are 10 must-have pieces that every lover of vintage jewelry should own: 

1. Bold Statement Clip-On Earrings

Back in the '70s and '80s, bold oversized earrings were a must. Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, and Christian Dior brandished sculptural clip-ons in gold tones, enamel, and rhinestones. These pieces can transform any outfit while capturing the drama vintage fashion speaks about. 

2. Gold-Tone Chain Necklace

Chunky chain necklaces are real versatile pieces of jewelry working great both days and nights. Find something from reputed houses such as Chanel or Monet, acclaimed for their substantial weight, intricate detailing, and graceful finish. It is a never-out-of-style classic.

3. Designer Brooch

Brooches were once passé; today, they are ushered back. A vintage designer brooch from Ciner or Trifari can add an elegant touch to jackets, scarves, and even bags. Plus, it's always a great conversation starter.

4. Signed Cocktail Ring

A collection must definitely have at least one statement-making cocktail ring. Think very vintage colors, stones or sculptural designs. Kenneth Jay Lane or Panetta show-stopping rings are undeniably cool still.

5. Enamel Bangles

Enamel jewelry is this little touch of color with a high-gloss finish. Collecting a few from houses such as Halston or Napier gives you lots of bangles to mix and match for any season.

6. Pendant necklace with a logo or charm

One of the trends of the '90s was logos, and now they are back in fashion. A pendant necklace with a classic logo, heart, or charm from designers such as Escada or Moschino sends out that subtle vinyl statement.

7. Pearl Strand or Clip-On Pearl Earrings

Basically, pearls have been reworked and paraded in front of every major fashion house. Whether it's a single strand or big, fake pearl earrings, that look has an aura of mid-century mystique.

8. Cameo or Intaglio Piece

Such traditional motifs underwent resurgences in the '60s and '70s. Seek out those with high or low relief carving or glass intaglios set in gold-tone castings. They combine the classical art form with elegant wearability.

9. Tassel or Fringe Earrings

Tassel and fringe earrings are those that add movement and texture to your ensemble. Vintage during the disco era brings vibration to your evening look.

10. Runway-Inspired Cuff Bracelet

From big cuffs emerge big style statements. In other words, vintage cuffs from designers, especially from those impactful names such as Lanvin and Balenciaga, are collectible and wearable pieces of fashion history.

Curating with Purpose.

While building your vintage designer jewelry collection, give serious thought to the quality, condition, and narrative behind each piece. At Gilded Trifles, we source and authenticate every product, warranting your investment in style, history, and artistry.

Buying vintage jewelry is the way to not only wear the past but also save beauty and legacy for the future. Let your jewelry box be a model gallery of the best moments in fashion.