Baroque Rocks Knowledge Hub: Vintage Jewellery Guide
Baroque Rocks is a leading destination for fine vintage jewellery from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, all the way to early 2000s.
Explore our expert guide to vintage jewellery, mid-century design, gemstones, gold, and jewellery care.
Bejewelled Knowledge is Baroque Rocks’ guide to vintage jewellery, gemstones, precious metals and the jewellery world. Whilst we adore bedecking you marvellous Magpies in treasure, we’re equally obsessed with adding a little shimmer to your IQ. After all, knowledge is the ultimate accessory darlings!
The Baroque Rocks Bejewelled Knowledge explores the history, craftsmanship, and intrigue behind some of the world’s most fascinating jewels, helping collectors and enthusiasts understand everything from vintage jewellery and gemstone lore to gold finishes, jewellery care, and the ownership of the world’s great jewellery houses.
Within Bejewelled Knowledge, we examine the geopolitics of precious metals such as gold and silver, exploring the economic and global forces that influence their prices and enduring importance. We also decode the craftsmanship and terminology behind jewellery finishes — from gold vermeil to silver gilt — helping readers navigate the technical justify of the jewellery world.
Baroque Rocks specialises in fine vintage jewellery from the mid-20th century onwards.
Through our In the Glow series, we reveal the inner workings of the luxury jewellery industry, examining which jewellery houses belong to global luxury groups such as LVMH, Richemont, and Kering, and which remain proudly owner-led and independent.
We also celebrate the enduring allure of vintage jewellery, exploring why collectors increasingly favour jewels with history, character, and sustainability at their core.
Meanwhile, our Birthstones series delves into the lore, geology, and symbolism of the gemstones associated with each month, while our Spring Clean jewellery care guides share practical wisdom on how to clean, protect, and care for fine jewellery so treasured pieces continue to sparkle for generations.
Explore The Baroque Rocks’ Guides by clicking here:
1. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Gold: Carats, Colours, and Finishes
Understand the differences between gold finishes, plating techniques, and historic gilding methods used in fine and vintage jewellery. This guide also explores the different types of gold used in jewellery, from solid gold and gold alloys such as yellow, white, and rose gold to gold-filled, rolled gold, and gold vermeil, helping collectors decode the craftsmanship behind precious metal jewellery.
2. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Jewellery Cleaning and Care
From storing vintage pieces to cleaning precious metals and gemstones, learn how to maintain brilliance and longevity in your jewellery collection.
3. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Vintage Jewellery
Baroque Rocks champions offbeat aesthetic jewels for those who march to the Current Beat and is in short, the vivaciousness of Vintage Jewellery from the 1960s and 1970s through to the early 2000s, celebrating bold design, craftsmanship, and individuality. This Baroque Rocks guide explores why collectors increasingly favour vintage jewellery for its sustainability, rarity, history, and distinctive character.
4. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Birthstones by Month
Discover the history, symbolism and science behind each month’s birthstone and the fascinating stories woven into the world’s most celebrated gemstones.
5. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Who Owns the World’s Jewellery Houses
An insider guide to the modern jewellery industry — from global luxury conglomerates to independent founder-led houses with a fascinating index showcasing who owns Cartier to Tiffany to Gucci to Van Cleef and Arpels!
6. Baroque Rocks’ Guide to Geopolitical Gold and Silver
Explore how global economics, geopolitics and investor demand influence the price and desirability of the world’s most precious metals that are Gold and Silver.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Jewellery
What is vintage jewellery?
Vintage jewellery typically refers to pieces that are at least 20–30 years old, most commonly from the mid-20th century onwards — including iconic designs from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.
What is the difference between vintage and antique jewellery?
Antique jewellery is over 100 years old, while vintage jewellery usually refers to more recent historic pieces, particularly from the 20th century.
Why is mid-century vintage jewellery so desirable?
Mid-century jewellery (1960s–1980s) is prized for its bold design, sculptural forms, and exceptional craftsmanship, often featuring distinctive gemstones and innovative gold work that feels both timeless and modern.
Is vintage jewellery a sustainable choice?
Yes — vintage jewellery is one of the most sustainable ways to buy jewellery, as it reuses existing materials and preserves craftsmanship without the need for new mining.
What is Gold Vermeil (also knowns as Silver Gilt) vs Gold Plated jewellery?
Gold vermeil or Silver Gilt is a thick layer of gold over sterling silver, offering durability and quality, while gold plating is a thinner layer of gold over base metal and tends to wear more quickly.
Baroque Rocks is a destination for fine vintage jewellery from the 1960s, 1970s through to the early 2000s, building one of the most comprehensive resources for mid-century jewellery and modern vintage style.