Antique and vintage estate jewelry never goes out of style. From Art Deco pieces of the 1920s to bold designs from the 1980s, these timeless treasures continue to turn heads and hold their value.
While all eras offer something unique, certain styles and top estate jewelry designers consistently outperform others at auction — and knowing what’s in demand can make a big difference when it’s time to sell.
At Joshua Kodner, we specialize in tracking current trends and market values in valuable estate jewelry. If you’re looking to sell vintage jewelry for cash, our expert team can help you identify the pieces most likely to generate the most interest. Ready to find out what your jewelry is worth? Contact us today for a complimentary consultation for antique jewelry auction prices.
Classic Pearls
Have pearls ever gone out of style? The answer is a resounding no. Worn daily by icons like Coco Chanel and Queen Elizabeth II, pearls remain a staple in vintage jewelry collections — and have made a full comeback with younger generations incorporating them into more casual styles.
Today’s trendsetters are giving pearls a modern twist, often pairing them with something more edgy. Layering pearls is a fresh take on a timeless style, and there are few better places to find pearls than at auction.
Hot auction items include:
- Natural saltwater pearls
- Pearl chokers with diamond accents
- Mid-century or Art Deco pearl necklaces
Bold gold from the ’70s and ’80s
The glitz of the disco era is back, and she’s gold. Bold, chunky gold pieces from the 1970s and 1980s are commanding attention both on the red carpet and in the auction room. Oversized gold necklaces, sculptural bangles, and wide-link choker necklaces are especially in demand.
These statement pieces are not only visually striking, but they’re also highly collectible thanks to the quality of goldwork and their iconic vintage appeal. Will gold ever go out of style? We think not.
Hot auction items include:
- 18K yellow gold cuffs and chains
- Oversized hoop earrings
- Designer pieces by Bulgari and Cartier from the era
Luxury Designer Pieces: Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier
Valuable estate jewelry from legendary houses like Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier continues to dominate auction sales. These brands offer timeless elegance and strong resale value, making them a favorite among serious collectors and fashion-forward buyers alike.
- Bulgari is celebrated for bold colors, Italian glamour, and its iconic Serpenti collection.
- Van Cleef & Arpels is known for whimsical, nature-inspired motifs like the Alhambra.
- Cartier offers a mix of Art Deco sophistication and bold 20th-century statements, like their signature Panthère.
Insider tip: Top estate jewelry designer pieces often outperform similar non-branded items at auction over online reselling, especially if they come with original packaging or documentation.
Renaissance Revival
The elegance of the past is once again en vogue. The Renaissance Revival trend draws heavily from historical art, architecture, and jewelry design — think intricate metalwork, regal gemstones, and ornate gold detailing.
The trend is about opulence. Keep an eye out for lace work and richly adorned gold pieces that echo royalty. Before you list your Renaissance Revival jewelry for sale, it’s essential to understand its true worth and learn to accurately determine the value of your antique jewelry auction prices.
Hot auction items include:
- Jewelry with mythological or religious themes
- Ornate rings with large colored gemstones
- Gold pendants featuring miniature enamel paintings
Layered and Stacked Styles
Layering is more than a fashion choice — it’s a way to personalize your look with meaningful vintage pieces. Stacking bracelets featuring colored gemstones or diamonds with bold gold cuffs is a major trend and similarly, layering necklace chains in varied lengths adds depth and elegance.
Hot auction items include:
- Vintage gold chain necklaces
- Multi-strand gemstone bracelets
- Art Deco or Retro-era stackable rings
Vintage Jewelry with a Story
Statement brooches, cocktail rings, and estate necklaces are being appreciated not just as accessories, but as wearable art. These pieces often come with a fascinating history, making them even more desirable to collectors.
One standout category for valuable estate jewelry is Art Deco jewelry (1915–1935), which has made a major comeback. Known for its bold geometry, symmetry, and luxurious materials, Art Deco pieces blend historical significance with striking modernist aesthetics.
Hot Art Deco auction items to look out for:
- Emerald and diamond cocktail rings
- Geometric sapphire and platinum bracelets
- Filigree brooches with black onyx or enamel detailing
The Return of the Vintage Brooch
Brooches have cycled in and out of fashion over the decades — but we’ve seen an increase in their demand at auction as of late. That’s great news for collectors, especially those looking to expand their collection without breaking the bank.
Brooches are often more affordable than bracelets and earrings (because of less demand) yet still being an incredible versatile accessory. Wear them in your hair, on a sash or scarf, or pinned to the collar of a button-down blouse.
From whimsical mid-century designs to bold Art Deco pieces, vintage brooches offer a unique way to express personal style — and many remain undervalued at auction, making them a smart investment for savvy buyers.
Hot auction items to look for:
- Limited edition brooches with precious gemstones
- Brooches with unique animal motifs
- Brooches made by designer companies
Maximize the Value of Your Estate Jewelry with Joshua Kodner
Whether you’re ready to part with a beloved piece or curious about what your vintage jewelry might be worth, the experts at Joshua Kodner are here to help. With decades of experience in fine jewelry and estate auctions, we know what collectors are looking for and how to position your pieces for maximum return.
Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and take the first step toward earning top dollar at auction.
