THE VINTAGE AND ESTATE JEWELRY LOOK IS STILL ALL THE RAGE

James Bond may have taught us that Diamonds Are Forever in 1956, but it's not just diamond jewelry that withstands the eternal test of time. Jewelry, after all, is made to endure—it's made to be worn, and then passed down from one generation so that the next can also wear it, thus feeling a connection to the past. Whether it's Grandfather's pocket-watch or a great aunt's engagement ring, that feeling of being a part of the past is one of the most wonderful things about vintage and estate jewelry. Diamonds may be the hardest substance on earth, but all precious stones and rare metals can and do endure, and vintage jewelry is an excellent way to keep in touch with times past.

Estate Jewelry ringThere's nothing like the sense of personal connection one gets from antique and vintage jewelry handed down from one generation to the next. But for some, their individual style means they're more interested in old things than new ones, regardless of whether it was given to them or they found it at a store. Antique, vintage, and estate jewelry are all the rage these days. People are seeking out jewels and gems from times past in brick-and-mortar jewelry stores and online, searching for Victorian, Art Deco, and other styles of necklaces, rings, earrings, and brooches. TIVOL is proud to carry Fred Leighton Vintage Jewelry, one of the finest curators of astonishingly beautiful vintage and estate pieces from the greatest periods in jewelry history. While Fred Leighton is known for his signature creations, he is also an expert in the best of the best from the past, especially the 19th and 20th centuries.

If you're new to the world of estate jewelry, you may be wondering what the difference is between antique and vintage jewelry. Antique jewelry was made over 100 years ago; vintage jewelry was made between 100 years ago and today. Antique jewelry from the Georgian and Victorian periods in general is a bit more delicate, and has often been reset or modified in some way to suit more modern sensibilities; pieces from the Art Deco, Retro, and Modern periods will often be sturdier, but still in need of extra care in their handling and cleaning.

Estate jewelry ringFred Leighton's collection of antique and vintage jewelry is inspired by nothing less than the most gorgeous and glamorous icons of each era. His Georgian necklaces would look perfect gracing the neck of characters from a Jane Austen novel, and his Victorian pieces hearken back to the age of Queen Victoria, when the queen's mourning garb inspired a craze for jet, onyx, and garnet jewelry. He also specializes in Art Deco pieces that will remind you of Jazz Age parties where one might see Jay Gatsby shaking the hand of famous socialites or actresses, sometimes with Egyptian or French flair. And for those who are more intrigued by Old Hollywood, Leighton's mid-century pieces will remind you of the glamour of old Marilyn Monroe movies.

For those interested in exploring the finest pieces of antique and vintage jewelry, come by TIVOL in Kansas City to see what Fred Leighton has discovered just for you. You'll find a collection of elegant pieces from the past alongside the most beautiful modern jewelry.

TIVOL in Kansas City specializes in jewelry old and new. Come in to our store in the Country Club Plaza or in Overland Park at Hawthorne Plaza.