Why Vintage Tiffany & Co. Jewellery is a Smart Investment
When you think of Tiffany & Co., what comes to mind? The iconic Blue Box? Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's? That sense of timeless elegance is no accident. It's the result of over 180 years of design innovation, unparalleled craftsmanship, and a story that began in a small stationery and fancy goods store.
For collectors and lovers of vintage jewellery, understanding this history isn't just trivia—it's the key to appreciating why a piece of vintage Tiffany is more than an accessory; it's a wearable piece of history.
The Humble Beginnings: 1837
In 1837, Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young founded "Tiffany, Young & Ellis" in New York City with a $1,000 loan from Tiffany's father. They sold stationery, fancy goods, and a small selection of jewellery. Their reputation was built on a simple, revolutionary policy: "Only the best is good enough." They were one of the first American companies to use the British sterling silver standard (925/1000) in 1851, guaranteeing quality that customers could trust.
Defining American Glamour: The 19th Century Innovations
Tiffany & Co. quickly became a symbol of American excellence.
- The Tiffany Diamond: In 1878, Tiffany acquired one of the world's largest and finest fancy yellow diamonds, a 287.42-carat stone. The brand's gemologists famously cut it into a breathtaking 128.54-carat cushion cut, showcasing their mastery and boldness.
- The Tiffany Setting: Perhaps the most important innovation in modern engagement rings, the Tiffany Setting was introduced in 1886. Its six-prong setting lifted the diamond high above the band, maximizing light and brilliance. This design forever changed how the world thought about diamond solitaires and remains a benchmark today.
The 20th Century: Becoming a Global Icon
The 20th century cemented Tiffany's place in popular culture.
- Art Deco Excellence: During the 1920s and 1930s, Tiffany & Co. produced some of its most exquisite Art Deco pieces, characterized by geometric patterns, bold colors, and platinum settings. Vintage Tiffany Art Deco rings and bracelets are highly sought-after for their impeccable proportions and craftsmanship.
- Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961): Audrey Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly forever linked Tiffany & Co. with timeless, aspirational glamour. The film was a feature-length love letter to the brand.
- Design Legends: Tiffany attracted design visionaries like Jean Schlumberger, whose nature-inspired fantasies in gold and gemstones became legendary, and Elsa Peretti, whose organic, sensual forms for the brand in the 1970s revolutionised modern jewellery design. Vintage Schlumberger and Peretti pieces are considered blue-chip collectibles.
The Allure of Vintage Tiffany & Co.
So, what makes vintage Tiffany jewellery so special to own today?
- Uncompromising Craftsmanship: Every piece, from a simple silver key to a dazzling diamond necklace, was built to last. The quality of the metals, the setting of the stones, and the finishing details are consistently exceptional.
- Timeless Design: Tiffany's designs rarely go out of style. A vintage piece feels as relevant and elegant today as it did the day it was made.
- A Tangible History: Owning a vintage Tiffany item connects you to its legacy. You own an object that was created during a specific, celebrated era of the brand's history.
- Sustainable Luxury: Choosing vintage is a conscious choice. It extends the life of a beautifully made object and is the ultimate form of sustainable, ethical luxury.
At Tobi Gem, we are proud to offer a curated selection of vintage Tiffany & Co. pieces. Each one has been carefully authenticated and selected for its design, condition, and ability to embody the glorious history we've just explored.
Whether you're drawn to the bold geometry of Art Deco, the playful elegance of Elsa Peretti, or the timeless simplicity of a classic Tiffany silver design, you're investing in a legacy.
Ready to find your piece of Tiffany history? [Browse our collection of vintage Tiffany & Co. jewellery here.]