Gold & Metal Jewelry Options Explained
Which Metal Option is Right for You?
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The Ultimate Jewelry Buying Guide
Why Read this Guide?
Value: Explore how to invest wisely in vintage, custom, or collectible jewelry
Trust: Discover how to identify a reputable jeweler and avoid common mistakes
Clarity: Learn how to compare metals, gemstones, and pricing with confidence
Shop Gemstone Jewelry Online
Jewelry Gift Ideas for Every Occasion
Birthstones, Anniversary Gems & More
Finding the perfect jewelry gift means matching the moment with something truly meaningful. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, honoring your wedding anniversary, or welcoming a new baby, Arnold Jewelers in Largo, FL has guides and inspiration to help you choose the right piece.
Milestone Gift Ideas
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Largo Anniversary Gifts: Gemstones by Year
Celebrate love and milestones with anniversary gemstones that represent each year together — from the first gold anniversary to your golden 50th. -
Push Presents in Florida: Jewelry for a New Mom
Mark the arrival of your little one with a timeless gift for mom, from diamond pendants to custom birthstone rings that capture this unforgettable moment. - Tampa Bay Birthstone Jewelry: Month-by-Month Guide
Discover the meaning, history, and styling tips for each month’s birthstone. Find the perfect gemstone necklace, ring, or earrings to make every birthday sparkle.
Birthstones by Month Chart
Curious about your birthstone? Here’s a quick guide to each month’s gemstone, along with a helpful blog post that explores its history, symbolism, and beauty.
| Month | Shop Gemstone(s) | Month | Shop Gemstone(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January What are the Birthstones for January? |
Garnet | July Is Ruby a Good Gemstone? |
Ruby |
| February Birthstone & Flower for February |
Amethyst | August Meaning Behind August’s Birthstone |
Peridot |
| March What is the Birthstone for March? |
Aquamarine | September September’s Precious Gem |
Sapphire |
| April Sparkling April: The Dazzling Diamond |
Diamond | October Why does October have 2 Birthstones? |
Opal · Tourmaline |
| May What Month is Emerald’s Birthstone? |
Emerald | November Why Did November’s Birthstone Change? |
Topaz · Citrine |
| June What is the Birthstone for June? |
Pearl · Moonstone · Alexandrite | December December Birthstone & Flower |
Turquoise · Tanzanite |
From meaningful birthstones to milestone anniversary gemstones and memorable push presents, explore jewelry gifts that celebrate life’s most special moments — all from Tampa Bay’s trusted jeweler in Largo, FL. Not local? Shop online and receive fast, free shipping!
Antique vs Vintage vs Estate Jewelry
Exploring Jewelry with History
Understanding these differences helps buyers make informed decisions when choosing or appraising older pieces.
Quick Jewelry Glossary
- Antique: 100+ years old (Georgian, Victorian)
- Vintage: 20–99 years old (Art Deco, Retro)
- Estate: Any pre-owned jewelry, regardless of age
Explore Our Featured Estate Jewelry Insights
- What is Vintage Jewelry?
Learn the defining features, age range, and styles that make jewelry “vintage”—plus how to spot authentic period pieces. - The Vintage Vault: Unlocking the Magic of Vintage Rings
Explore unique designs, craftsmanship, and investment value of vintage rings, with examples from our curated collection. - What is Estate Jewelry?
Understand what qualifies as estate jewelry, how it’s appraised, and why it’s a smart choice for buyers seeking value. - How Do I Choose Heirloom Jewelry?
Tips for selecting pieces with lasting sentimental and market value—perfect for passing down through generations.
Guide to Popular Jewelry Eras
Timeline of Eras
Understanding vintage jewelry eras helps buyers and collectors recognize craftsmanship, spot authentic period pieces, and appreciate the evolution of design through history. Each era reflects its time’s art, politics, and technology—making vintage jewelry both wearable and collectible.
Georgian Era (1714–1837)
Historical Backdrop: Named after the reigns of Kings George I-IV in Britain, the Georgian period predates industrial mass production. All jewelry was handmade.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Handmade with repoussé and chasing techniques
- Use of rose-cut diamonds and flat-cut gemstones
- Nature-inspired motifs: birds, flowers, and ribbons
Popular Pieces:
- Hair jewelry, girandole earrings, miniature portrait lockets
Victorian Era (1837–1901)
Historical Backdrop: Spanning Queen Victoria’s reign, this era is typically divided into three design periods: Romantic, Grand, and Aesthetic.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Romantic: serpents, hearts, and floral motifs
- Grand: heavy mourning jewelry, black enamel, jet
- Aesthetic: more artistic and nature-driven designs
Popular Pieces:
- Lockets, brooches, mourning rings, hairwork
Edwardian Era (1901–1915)
Historical Backdrop: A short but luxurious period, marked by King Edward VII’s reign and rising elegance before WWI.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Delicate, lace-like platinum filigree
- Use of pearls and old mine-cut diamonds
- Garland and floral motifs
Popular Pieces:
- Lavaliere necklaces, brooches, tiaras
Art Nouveau Era (1890–1910)
Historical Backdrop: Overlapping with the Edwardian era, Art Nouveau was a design rebellion focused on naturalism and fantasy.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Enamel work (plique-à-jour, basse-taille)
- Mythological and nature subjects: fairies, peacocks, orchids
- Soft curves and flowing lines
Popular Pieces:
- Brooches, pendants, combs
Art Deco Era (1920s–1935)
Historical Backdrop: Post-WWI optimism, Jazz Age, and industrial influence drove bold design and symmetry.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Platinum or white gold
- Geometric shapes and clean lines
- Calibre-cut gemstones, emerald, baguette and Asscher diamonds
Popular Pieces:
- Cocktail rings, long pendant necklaces, diamond bracelets
Retro / Mid-Century Era (1935–1950s)
Historical Backdrop: WWII restrictions and Hollywood glamour led to bold, oversized styles made from yellow and rose gold.
Jewelry Characteristics:
- Large, dramatic designs
- Synthetic rubies, aquamarines, and citrines
- Scrolls, bows, and chunky chains
Popular Pieces:
- Tank bracelets, cocktail rings, statement brooches
Shop Arnold Jeweler’s Vintage Jewelry Selection!
