Vintage jewelry is one of the most stunning accessories you can add to an outfit, whether it’s a family heirloom or newly acquired from an antique store. However, shopping for vintage jewels can be tricky. How can you ensure you get the gorgeous jewelry that you want and avoid any pitfalls?
Check the Seller Carefully
Whenever you are looking at vintage jewelry, you should carefully consider who the seller is. If you are purchasing from eBay or Craigslist, you should start by seeing what other items that seller has listed. If they have 12 listings for the same “vintage ring,” there’s a good chance that it isn’t vintage at all. Most estate pieces and vintage jewels are not bought or sold in bulk, so having a large quantity of the same exact piece is a red flag. You should also read any reviews that the seller has to see how the experience has been for other people.
Know What to Ask
Don’t be afraid to ask the seller multiple questions whether you’re at a store in person or browsing online. Ask how the seller found a piece. If they received it at an estate sale or it was a family heirloom, that is a much more trustworthy story than a vague explanation. Any good, quality seller will be able to provide you with information about where a piece is from. It’s even better if they can also give you information on when the piece was acquired and its history and condition. If the seller does not want to answer questions, it’s a red flag.
Look for a Mark
Most antique jewelers left a maker’s mark on the piece somewhere on it. If a piece has an origin before the 1950s, you should always check for some type of marking on it. You should also do online research on pieces from the same maker or even things that look similar. With a little time investment, you could glean a great deal of information from the internet about your vintage jewelry piece.
Talk to the Experts at SAZ Gem & Jewelry Appraisal
Whether you have a family ring you are interested in learning the value of or you’re looking to expand your collection, SAZ Gem & Jewelry Appraisal is here to help. We know how to verify the authenticity of vintage jewels and can assist you before, during or after the purchasing process. For more information, give us a call at 425-785-1871.