Wagner Eleuteri
Owner, Eleuteri
New York
“This holiday season, people are drawn to jewelry with meaning — pieces that feel personal and tell a story. Vintage designs make beautiful gifts, combining craftsmanship, history, and style. A sculptural 1970s Bulgari bracelet, Marina B diamond earrings, or a classic Cartier brooch can make a lasting impression. We’re seeing strong interest in jewelry from the 1960s to 1980s for distinctive pieces by Bulgari, Marina B, David Webb, and Cartier. Collectors are seeking exceptional designs such as Bulgari’s Monete necklaces, David Webb’s animal bracelets, or colorful geometric earrings, and they are gravitating toward warm yellow gold and colorful gemstones — coral, turquoise — and enamel.
“Clients appreciate versatility, as seen in pieces like the Bulgari Tubogas bracelets or convertible diamond necklaces that can be worn from day to night. Men’s jewelry is gaining interest, too, with vintage Patek Philippe or Piaget watches, and bold gold cufflinks and bracelets from the 1970s, being strong choices. Our ideal range is $10,000 to $30,000, wherein clients can find signed Bulgari rings, a pair of vintage earrings, or statement bracelets that feel unique.”
Russell Fogarty
Founder, Beladora
Beverly Hills, California
“Can’t-miss gifts are pieces people reach for daily, filling a specific request or becoming part of a jewelry wardrobe. Diamond studs, gold hoops, small diamond rivière necklaces, gold link chains, curb link bracelets, and sporty rings are perennial favorites, while multicolored gemstones remain popular. For men, watches remain coveted, while cufflinks and full stud sets have replaced money clips as cash declines.
“Jewelry from iconic houses — Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, David Webb, and Verdura — vintage or new, continues to be highly sought-after. Old cut diamonds — old European, old mine, old fancy cuts, movals, and cushions — now command premiums. Approximately 95% of our inventory is estate jewelry, from Victorian to contemporary, in every material. Our holiday jewelry gifts usually fall in the approachable range of $2,000 to $10,000.”
Ariel Saidian
Owner, Joseph Saidian and Sons
New York
“Trends continue to veer toward more yellow gold, less platinum, and a preference for rare, designer styles over large diamonds. Bulgari and Van Cleef & Arpels lead client interest, followed by David Webb and Cartier. Pieces from the 1960s to 1980s outsell jewels from the 1910s to 1930s, and white diamond-only designs lag bold, colorful jewels. It doesn’t have to be the most valuable stone — a 1970s Bulgari chain with cabochon semiprecious stones can be more desirable than an unheated Burmese ruby. At the moment, exotic motifs like Indian-inspired Van Cleef & Arpels designs are in higher demand than a 10-carat diamond. For men, bold rings and vintage brooches are popular. Our holiday sweet spot typically ranges from $25,000 to $100,000.”
Allison Richman
Vice president of sales, Windsor Jewelers, Inc.
New York
“Natural diamonds are always a perfect choice. Old European cuts and Victorian button-back styles have resurged among collectors and gift-givers. There is tremendous interest in bold yellow gold jewelry and 1990s-era designs and iconic pieces like the Cartier Panthère. Men are gravitating toward timepieces and brooches for formal occasions.
Meanwhile, interest in fine colored gemstones and fancy diamonds is growing. Sculptural minimalist designs, such as Elsa Peretti’s Bone Cuff and Bulgari Serpenti pieces both resonate with clients. Estate jewelry carries a dual appeal: tangible value and unmatched individuality. The gifting price range tends to be between $5,000 and $15,000.”
Zoe Bailey
Jewelry specialist, MS Rau
New Orleans, Louisiana
“Brooches are enjoying a resurgence this year, with vintage designs often uniquely personal — a favorite animal or sentimental motif. Rings remain top sellers for elegance and practicality, while earrings are perfect for effortless gifting. Tiffany, including Louis Comfort Tiffany designs, continues to perform well. Art Deco’s clean lines, geometric symmetry, and fine materials captivate collectors. Designers like Tiffany, Raymond Yard, and Cartier capture the era’s spirit beautifully. Our male clients value craftsmanship and materials: standout sapphire rings or Franck Muller and Audemars Piguet watches are strong choices.”
Lauren DeYoung
Founder, Lauren DeYoung Jewelry
New York
“This season favors bold, statement-making pieces with a refined edge — wider cuffs, statement earrings, and fun pinky and cocktail rings. Layering smaller pieces with bolder ones is key. Charms and lockets are making a comeback, adding a nostalgic, personal element. Signed vintage pieces are always a standout during the holidays; there is a lot of love for pieces from well-known design houses like Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and David Webb. Interest in exceptional-quality vintage jewels from lesser-known makers like Mellerio, René Boivin, and Marcus is growing, alongside Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco designs. For men, essential wardrobe pieces include cufflinks — such as our French Art Deco cabochon ruby and diamond set in platinum and 18-karat yellow gold — or a vintage Verger Frères cabochon sapphire travel watch. Clients seek craftsmanship and uniqueness, and gold is being embraced as a status symbol, with high demand for antique diamonds.”
Mahnaz Ispahani Bartos
Founder, Mahnaz Collection
New York
“Anything from our collection makes a meaningful holiday gift. Each vintage piece is handmade, one-of-a-kind, and highly crafted. We specialize in design-led, artist-made jewels from specific regions, each with its own story, typically starting around $1,000. This season, bold 1960s to 1980s designs in yellow gold are in demand. Collectors valuing design over diamonds gravitate toward Modernist, organic, geometric, and bohemian forms. Beadwork, refined vintage Murano glass, and Indigenous American and Nordic collections remain popular at our gallery. Silver highlights Modernist design at modest prices. Our curated vintage timepieces, for all genders, are selling well.”
Main image: Eleuteri owner Wagner Eleuteri outside one of the jeweler’s stores. (Eleuteri)
