Vintage jewels gain popularity as investments

By David Brough

LONDON (Reuters) - Rare vintage jewels are increasingly popular investments to protect against rising inflation and economic uncertainty, and Art Deco designs are commanding the most attention from collectors.

"There are a lot of people now with jewels in their safes for a rainy day," said Carol Woolton, Jewellery Editor of British Vogue, a top fashion and lifestyle magazine.

Signed, classic Art Deco Cartier or Van Cleef & Arpels pieces are among the most prized assets, she said.

"If you have classic vintage Cartier or Van Cleef pieces of the 1930s, signed, they will never drop in value."

Bentley & Skinner, an established retailer in London's premier jewellery quarter on Bond Street, is renowned for its antique jewels, including some superbly hand-crafted Victorian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco pieces.

Senior sales representative Stanley Lester said the credit crunch had not crimped spending, although footfall had eased off.

"Regular customers who come in are spending a similar amount to before the credit crunch," he said.

"Art Deco is without doubt the most popular. It never really went out of vogue. Many Americans are looking for jewellery of the Art Deco period. Many customers are looking for Art Deco engagement rings. Victorian pieces are also extremely popular."