What counts as antique jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Antique jewellery is any piece made at least 100 years ago, which is the standard definition used by customs authorities and the jewellery trade worldwide. That threshold means pieces from the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and early Art Deco eras currently qualify. Genuine antique jewellery is distinct from vintage, which refers to pieces roughly 20 to 100 years old, and estate jewellery, which simply means previously owned pieces of any age. The age cutoff matters for import duties, valuations and what sellers are allowed to claim.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between antique and vintage jewellery?
- Antique means over 100 years old; vintage is the term used for pieces that are older than about 20 years but under 100. Both are distinct from estate jewellery, which is simply any secondhand piece, regardless of age.
- How can you tell if jewellery is genuinely antique?
- Hallmarks, maker's marks and assay stamps are the most reliable guide. The construction techniques, findings and style of the piece also provide strong clues, and a qualified appraiser or antique jewellery specialist can give a confident assessment.
- Is antique jewellery a good investment?
- Well-chosen antique pieces from recognised eras, especially with documented provenance, tend to hold or increase in value. The rarity of original craftsmanship and materials that cannot be reproduced exactly gives antique jewellery a resilience that new pieces do not always have.
Designing a ring
Talk through antique jewellery with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio