Lexicon
✧ M4ndylove Jewelry Lexicon ✧
A guide to vintage & antique jewelry terms.
✧ Antique
Jewelry that is at least 100 years old. Antique pieces reflect the craftsmanship and design codes of a specific historical era.
✧ Vintage
Jewelry that is typically 20–99 years old. Vintage pieces capture the aesthetic of past decades and often feature unique materials and techniques no longer widely used.
✧ One of a Kind
A piece created in a single edition using rare vintage or antique elements. Once sold, it will not be reproduced.
✧ Stainless Steel
A durable, water-resistant metal known for its strength and longevity. Stainless steel resists tarnishing and is ideal for everyday wear while maintaining a sleek, modern finish.
✧ Gold Plated
A thin layer of gold applied over a base metal. It gives the look of gold while remaining more accessible.
✧ Gold Filled
A thicker layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. More durable than gold plated and longer lasting.
✧ Patina
The natural aging effect that develops on metals over time. We embrace patina as part of the story and character of vintage jewelry.
✧ Repurposed Jewelry
Jewelry redesigned from authentic vintage or antique elements. Each piece carries history into a new form.
✧ Cameo
A carved relief design, traditionally depicting a profile portrait, often set in a brooch or pendant. Classic cameos were historically carved from shell, coral, or stone, creating a soft contrast between the raised figure and the background. Timeless and romantic, cameo jewelry reflects 19th-century elegance and heirloom charm.
✧ Crucifix
A cross featuring the figure of Christ. Traditionally worn as a symbol of faith, protection, and devotion, the crucifix is also appreciated in vintage jewelry for its intricate detailing and powerful spiritual presence.
✧ Cross
A symbolic motif representing faith, protection, and strength. In jewelry, the cross transcends religion and is often worn as a timeless statement of personal meaning and heritage.
✧ Cherub
A small angelic figure often depicted as a winged child. Popular in Victorian and Baroque-inspired jewelry, cherubs symbolize love, innocence, and divine protection, adding a romantic and celestial touch to a piece.
✧ Sacred Heart
A devotional symbol representing divine love, compassion, and spiritual devotion. Traditionally depicted as a heart radiating light, often crowned with thorns or flames, the Sacred Heart carries deep religious significance while also embodying passion, protection, and timeless symbolism in vintage jewelry.
✧ Religious Medal
A devotional pendant featuring a saint, the Virgin Mary, Christ, or a sacred symbol. Traditionally worn for protection, faith, and spiritual connection, religious medals often carry deep personal meaning and are treasured as heirloom pieces passed through generations.
✧ Baroque
An ornate and dramatic style characterized by intricate detailing, curves, and bold religious or royal symbolism.
✧ Victorian
Jewelry inspired by the 19th century, known for romantic motifs, lockets, cameos, and symbolic details.