White gold is an alloy of gold and other metals, such as palladium or nickel, which alter its natural yellow colour to create a whiter appearance. Its development and commercial expansion in the early 20th century reflected the search for alternatives to platinum, while its growing popularity was closely linked to Art Deco jewellery of […]
Diamond colour is one of the four fundamental factors that determine a diamond’s quality and value, alongside clarity, cut and carat weight. According to the international grading scale established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), diamonds are classified from grade D, representing completely colourless stones, to grade Z, which displays noticeable yellow or brown […]
1980s jewellery is characterised by its voluminous designs, the prominence of yellow gold, two-tone combinations and the use of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and other coloured gemstones. Wide rings, oversized earrings, bold bracelets and chain necklaces turned jewellery into the focal point of an outfit—an aesthetic that is once again highly relevant. At Urbieta Antique, […]
Baroque pearls are natural or cultured pearls with irregular, asymmetrical shapes, created by the way layers of nacre are deposited during their formation inside the mollusc. Each one possesses a unique silhouette, and its quality is assessed according to factors such as lustre, surface, colour, size and nacre quality. At Urbieta Antique, we select antique […]
At Urbieta Antique, an antique and vintage jewellery specialist based in Madrid, Spain, we work with natural diamonds, including antique and reclaimed old-cut diamonds selected from historic jewellery. Although moissanite can look remarkably similar to a diamond at first glance, the two gemstones differ significantly in composition, optical properties, origin, rarity and value. Understanding these […]
Diamond clarity indicates the presence and visibility of internal inclusions and surface imperfections within the stone and is classified on a scale ranging from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Included). It is one of the 4Cs of diamonds, alongside cut, colour and carat weight, and influences both their appearance and value. At Urbieta Antique, we assess […]
Antique silver mesh purses and handbags are small works of silversmithing that became popular in Europe between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Made from tiny, flexible metal links and finished with decorative clasps, frames and chains, they were primarily used as evening bags. Today, they are valued as unique vintage accessories for their […]
The ruby is a red precious gemstone belonging to the corundum family, whose distinctive colour is primarily caused by the presence of chromium. Valued for its rarity, hardness and symbolism associated with love, passion and power, it has featured in some of the most remarkable creations in the history of jewellery. At Urbieta Antique, we […]
Chevalier rings are historic rings linked to traditional signet rings and are distinguished by their broad, prominent upper section. Although they traditionally featured coats of arms, initials or family emblems, over time they evolved into ornamental designs set with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and other precious stones. At Urbieta Antique, we select antique and vintage chevalier […]
Antique three-stone rings and five-stone rings feature three or five precious gemstones arranged in a balanced composition, usually diamonds, sapphires, rubies or emeralds. Popularised during the 19th century, these designs are distinguished by their symbolism, handcrafted settings and timeless elegance. At Urbieta Antique, an antique jewellery specialist in Madrid, we select original three-stone and five-stone […]
