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PastEra.com is known for its exceptional jewelry ranging from the 17th through 20th centuries. It is comprised of a team of collectors, historians, gemologists, curators, and jewelry experts. You can rest assured that what you purchase from them is top notch finery. I got a chance to chat with the dame of divine jewelry, Marion Glober. Check out what she had to share...

Past Era's collection spans many important historical periods. Which one seems to be the most collectible?

In my over 40 years of experience in the antique jewelry business I would have to say that nothing antique ever really goes out of style. For example I've noticed that various historical periods appear to be more collectible at one time or another, depending on current preferences and taste and somewhat dictated by fashion styles. On the other hand, some people collect a certain look, some a certain time period and others a particular kind of genre. Fine early memorial pieces known as memento mori for example. Other collectors look for pieces made of a particular material such as Berlin Ironwork. It so depends on the whims of collectors.

Many people confuse Art Deco and Art Nouveau. Can you tell us the difference?

The focus of the Art Nouveau was romanticism and the skills of the artisan. Beautiful metalwork was revered and the use of delicate enamels and semi-precious stones in soft, pale colors were preferred. Art Nouveau precedes the Art Deco. Art Nouveau comes at the end of the Victorian era right around the turn of the century. Flowing, asymmetrical and sensual designs were popular incorporating women's heads, designs from the natural world such as floral motifs and lots of insects and mythical creatures. For example see the work of René Lalique, the renowned French Art Nouveau artisan and jewelry maker. WW1 put an end to the of the Art Nouveau period.

Art Deco follows immediately after the end of WW1 when machinery and the industrial world really takes off. The designs are much more geometric and industrial looking than the Art Nouveau and incorporate the use of platinum and diamonds and bold designs with lots of vibrant colored stones. The jewelry of the Art Deco period is bold and beautiful and comes to an end at the start of WW2.

What advice would you give someone starting in collecting vintage and antique jewelry?

The most important first step is to shop with a reputable antique jeweler that you know and trust and buy the best you can afford and something you love. Build a collection of the finest (within your budget) of a certain period or design or material or style and slowly refine your collection as time goes by. Don't waste money buying items that are not true to a period and/or not in perfect original condition. Also, buy things that you would love wearing and then you will have continued enjoyment from your collection.

What is the rarest piece you have offered on PastEra.com?

We have had quite a few extraordinary pieces through the years. Including a rare Lasque diamond ring with a hand painted miniature of Shakespeare under the diamond, beautiful lacy Berlin ironwork pieces, early 17th century memorial rings, a wonderful Carlo Giuliano necklace, some items made by René Lalique and a fine 19th century cameo pin/pendant in its original fitted box and signed by Henri Vever. As an example we currently have a very beautiful Edwardian cluster ring set with a gorgeous untreated, natural Burmese ruby & diamonds.

I noticed you include everything after the Art Deco period in the "Retro" category. Why is this?

Retro refers to 1940s and early 1950s wartime and post-war 'cocktail' jewelry when lifestyles changed so dramatically. Also, referred to as the Art Moderne period. Lots of
standing around at cocktail parties and much less formal dinner entertaining. The jewelry is fun, very bold using lots of rose gold and bold colored stones. There was a shortage of platinum after the war and so very little was used during the Retro period. We also have an Estate section for things 1950s and later on PastEra.com

Some of your pieces look so modern. Do you specifically look for jewelry that can be incorporated into a modern wardrobe?

Everything I buy for Past Era Antique Jewelry can be worn with today's fashions. We love helping customers find new and fun ways to incorporate their antique jewelry into their contemporary wardrobes for fresh look.

I always fantasize about finding some rare treasure in the thrift store. Does this happen?

Absolutely! I suspect lots of people share your fantasy. However, realistically, it takes a very trained eye to spot a rare treasure. It is very important to be able to distinguish between real and fake, old and reproduction, quality and current condition. It takes many years of handling and buying this beautiful jewelry to become skilled at spotting that rare treasure. That is why it is critical, when building a collection, to be able to depend on a reliable and expert dealer who has many, many years of experience. Our history in the antique jewelry business is something that we are very proud of at Past Era Antique Jewelry and that is why we know people will love finding the gorgeous antique jewelry available at PastEra.com