How to Buy and Care for Antique Jewelry

How to Buy and Care for Antique Jewelry

If you are planning to refresh your jewelry collection, you should add antique or vintage jewelry. Antique jewelry has a classic elegance and styling. The characteristics of antique jewelry cannot be imitated or copied. These pieces are handcrafted with unique exquisite craftsmanship which makes them distinct from other kinds of jewelry.

Years back, antique jewelry are meant to be worn by old people but today, the perception is undergoing a drastic transformation. Antique jewelry is now extremely fashioned ornament worn by women of all ages that it will allow them to stand out from the crowd. It holds their intrinsic value that they are pass down through family and generations. If you are planning to purchase vintage jewelry, here are some tips you’ll find helpful in your purchase.

1) Research

It is important to understand the history behind every jewelry piece, as there are so many options available in the market today. You can research online or depend on jewelry associations if you are interested in any era of jewelry.

2) Spot the fake

When buying any designer piece make sure it has the brand signature on it. Antique collections are meant to leave maker’s mark on their piece. Use a magnifying glass to identify such valuable mark on the jewelry.

3) Ask for documentation and authentication

Getting documentation and authentication of your jewelry piece is another way to validate its value. The certificate will tell you every detail about the jewelry.

4) Be your own judge

Above all, you need to decide whether you will enjoy wearing that jewelry. Self-satisfaction is very important because you should not regret for the money you invested.

5) Compare prices

It is important to compare the price of every jewelry piece to check whether it is fake or if you are being ripped off. Visit different websites and consignment stores and determine the exact cost.

How to clean and care for your antique jewelry?

1. Make sure you don’t wear the jewelry while doing household jobs particularly heavier cleaning work or gardening.
2. Temperature changes can affect the stones in the jewelry. So always keep your jewelry in moderate temperature
3. Moisture is jewelry’s biggest enemy. So newer wear it to beaches, saunas, pools or in rain.
4. When it comes to storage, every container can’t protect the jewelry as they probably contain sulphur and can damage the gold and silver jewelry. The best option is to go for the metal, plastic containers or zip lock bags.
5. Make sure you keep items separate from each other. Keep them away from sunlight and hot car interiors.