Three local vintage jewelry enthusiasts discuss the subversive allure of collecting beyond fashion fads
The allure of aged wonders lies not in the new, but in the timeless and enduring. Welcome to the captivating realm of vintage jewelry - a realm that thrives on defying fleeting trends and celebrating unique stories. As the fashion world keeps spinning, chasing the next big thing, this buried treasure offers an irresistible escape.
Forget the monotony of disposable trinkets - these time-honored adornments revive memories of bygone eras, carefully crafted by artisans mastering the art of patience and detail. Each piece offers a treasure trove of emotions, nested within its tale of former lives and those who once wore it. Ponder the reason for this enthralling fascination - could it be the sheer thrill of the chase, the triumph of finding an authentic gem at a bustling flea market? Or perhaps it's the inspired urge to invest in quality, mastering the opposition against the endless cycle of purchase, discard, repeat. Whatever the driving force, the draw of vintage jewelry is indisputable, offering a genuine reprieve from the relentless frenzy of fashion and inviting instead, the creation of a distinct and personal style.
To delve deeper into this captivating universe, Vogue Singapore speaks with three connoisseurs - Angie Chen, Nathania Tay, and Jean - who share their unique and eclectic journey through this mesmerizing world. They divulge the strategies to spot stellar finds, reveal the tricks behind unearthing those hidden gems, and share their insights, their cherished favorites, and invaluable cues for those embarking on their own collecting odyssey.
Jean
What whispers led you to the enchanting world of vintage jewelry? How did you ignite your ardor for it? I, once prodigal with fast fashion trinkets, learned the hard way when they started to tarnish swiftly. That breakup was heartbreaking, but not only because of the wasted resources or the piles of not-so-pretty iron oxide. The hurt went deeper, leaving me longing for something that would last.
I sought solace in the wisdom of my mother, who educated me about different forms of gold plating, stainless steel, and sterling silver. My fascination with vintage apparel naturally blossomed, and I was soon enamored with the exquisiteness of relics that defied trends. I reveled in their aged charm, their distinctive designs, and the life they lived before me - now it was my turn to revel in them.
What traits capture your fancy when acquiring new additions to your stash? Are there any secrets to determining the worth of a piece? I'm constantly on the hunt for purity stamps, maker's marks, and any inscriptions that offer clues about the metal makeup and origin of the piece. These often lurk on the backs or hidden compartments of the jewellery. For instance, "925" denotes sterling silver, "18K" signifies gold, and certain artisans like Tiffany & Co. have their unique symbols.
When it comes to evaluating quality, I focus on the construction, the materials used, and the overall feel. Are the stones securely placed with metal prongs or mere pieces of glue? Does it feel flimsy, malleable, or sturdy? Authentic vintage jewelry frequently exudes a satisfying weight, an evidence of superior workmanship that flawlessly eludes modern mass-produced equivalents.
It is worth noting that a little tarnish does not signal a piece's inferiority; in fact, it often symbolizes age and authenticity. A gentle rub with a metal polishing cloth can restore its sparkle and prolong its life.
Of all your prized possessions, which piece holds your deepest affection? My love affair with my classic Chanel mini turn-lock necklace from 1996 is unparalleled. Its timeless appeal and artful design make it a sensational accessory for any ensemble. Crafted with 24k gold plating, this slender piece exudes an intoxicating brilliance that catches the eye.
What carousel of vendors is your go-to for sourcing magnificent vintage gems? Local businesses pitched on the premise of sustainability resonate with me the most. Takara House and La Vie are my recent findings - they offer a visually appealing array of unique pieces at reasonable prices. I also find solace in exploring the second floor of People's Park Complex, hunting for exquisite pendants hidden among the fabric stores. A genuine find is a tantalizing treasure.
For the fledgling aficionados, are there any suggestions for nurturing your collection? Advised Instagram shops are a fabulous source of inspiration, but be mindful of the prices. Let them serve as stepping stones for your journey, and they will open doors to further knowledge about the maker, the market, and the worth of pieces. Remember, investors in vintage jewelry revel in pieces they genuinely love rather than just focusing on the brand or the demand. And who knows, the next ruby or sapphire in your inventory may be a few searches away.
Angie Chen
How did the seed of affection for vintage jewelry blossom within you? Recount your odyssey. The sprout of my adoration for vintage jewelry was sown many years ago while I was studying in London. I've always harbored an interest in the historic aspects of fashion, and jewelry seemed like the ideal medium for me to begin my collection. The allure of owning a one-of-a-kind treasure that could adorn my wardrobe captivated me.
What characteristics do you pursue when growing your collection, and what criteria do you employ to assess the quality of a piece? I follow my intuition and sway towards distinctive pieces that employ unconventional techniques, often unseen in modern jewelry. When it comes to gold plating, I prefer those pieces that shine brilliantly.
From your magnificent collection, which item whispers the quietest tales to you? My jewel-encrusted Billy Boy Fraternity Goon necklace hailing from 1987 holds a special place in my heart. With its quirky design and eye-catching appeal, it adds a mysterious edge to even the most casual outfits. I revel in its transformative power; it is a versatile adornment that can elevate formal wardrobe staples as well as casual ensembles.
Which succulent shrubs and stands do you frequent for your nourishing acquisitions? Maison Goosens and Christian Lacroix are famed for their impeccable craftsmanship. These days, I primarily shop online, but If there's a flea market in St. Tropez on the horizon, I'm off to set up camp!
Is there any wisdom you'd like to impart to those eager to cultivate their collection?my advice is to cherish the process and develop a keener eye for distinction. Numerous items I have bought that I did not initially appreciate have since proven to be valuable additions to my collection. I am a firm believer in purchasing what I adore – not just seeking after the brand or the market value. And remember, if a piece has withstood three decades, it will continue to flourish in your collection for another three.
Nathania Tay
How did the enchanting world of vintage jewelry make its presence known in your life? Share the beginnings of your love affair. As a young adolescent, engrossed in fashion and exploring the dimensions of my personal style, the allure of vintage jewelry crept up on me around five years ago. The enticement of crystals and stones ignited my curiosity, propelling me towards this captivating sphere.
A pivotal moment in my obsession was when my mother shared pieces from her own collection with me - rings, earrings, and bangles she had gathered during her travels in her youth. I was enchanted by the timeless elegance of the vintage pieces, their rare designs, and the rich history they held. This moment fostered the birth of my love for vintage jewelry-an emotion that remains vivid and robust even today.
What essential attributes win your devotion when accumulating new additions to your collection? How do you assess the quality of a piece? My focus gravitates towards items that strike me with immediate appeal and hold a unique, timeless charm. I appreciate craftsmanship, particularly silver pieces, since I have sensitive skin and am drawn to that precious metal. I always look for pieces that are fully silver or gold or offer higher-quality plating as opposed to those that might tarnish or rust more easily.
Upon closer inspection, I assess the condition of the piece-looking for signs of tarnish, rust, or any damage to the stones like chips, dents, or scratches. However, a little wear and tear does not necessarily deter me; if the piece stirs my emotions, I am willing to overlook minor cosmetic flaws.
I am particularly fond of unique designs that stand out in a crowd but also complement my daily style. To me, a outstanding piece serves as a versatile addition to my collection, enhancing the aesthetic of various ensembles.
Of all your cherished acquisitions, which one resonates with you the most? My heart is forever captivated by the two lapis lazuli silver rings passed down from my mother. I wore them throughout my youth, and the connection I share with their history fills me with an inexplicable sense of joy and nostalgia. These lovely rings have accompanied me through countless life moments, their unique designs and meaningful stories ever present.
What are some enticing shops and markets that have lured you in, where have you found the most delicious prizes? Unearthing hidden gems is half the fun of collecting vintage jewelry, and Singapore’s Vintage Flea Market is my favorite playground. Hosted by The Retro Factory, this monthly event promises a wide array of treasures, some reasonable and others worth a small fortune.
I also highly recommend Un.Wastelands, which occasionally offers vintage pieces, as it promotes recycling and sustainability. I am always on the lookout for pop-ups and weekend markets in Singapore, and I frequently discover new deals through social media channels like TikTok and Instagram.
The taste for exploration is always stronger when I travel; I pay a visit to local flea markets and weekend markets, like those in Sydney, Bangkok or Thailand. There is something extraordinary about finding a rare piece of vintage jewelry in a far-off land, far removed from the hustle and bustle of home.
For the intrepid explorers just starting out in the world of vintage jewelry, what nuggets of wisdom would you like to bestow upon them? Begin by gathering inspiration and learning about various styles, designers, and movements. Platforms like Pinterest serve as an ideal launchpad for discovering your aesthetic preferences.
Invest in pieces that genuinely appeal to you, rather than focusing solely on brand names or market trends. Quality matters, and a genuine vintage piece will last for decades. Patience is essential; the thrill of hunting for the perfect accessory and the joy of finally finding it make the experience even more rewarding.
- My foray into vintage jewelry began as a response to the disappointment of fast-fashion trinkets that quickly tarnished.
- The allure of history and uniqueness in relics drew me away from fleeting trends.
- In detecting the worth of a piece, I look for purity stamps, maker's marks, and hidden inscriptions that reveal the metal makeup and origin of the jewelry.
- Authentic vintage jewelry often exudes a satisfying weight, a testament to superior workmanship that eludes modern mass-produced alternatives.
- A gentle rub with a metal polishing cloth can restore the sparkle of a piece and prolong its life.
- The classic Chanel mini turn-lock necklace from 1996 is my most treasured vintage jewelry item due to its timeless appeal and artful design.
- For those yet to embark on their collecting odyssey, recommended Instagram shops can provide inspiration, but focusing on investments in pieces genuinely loved will ensure long-term satisfaction.
- Angie Chen initially cultivated her love for vintage jewelry while studying in London, captivated by owning a one-of-a-kind treasure that could adorn her wardrobe.
- To grow a collection, focus on unique pieces employing unconventional design techniques and prefer gold plating that shines brilliantly, advises Angie Chen.
