How To Buy The Best Vintage Jewelry Pieces
Vintage jewelry, especially the kind that features bird or animal motifs
, is very much back in fashion. However, before one heads to the nearest vintage boutique, or to the local thrift shop to scout out some interesting pieces, there are few important tips one should keep in mind prior to making a purchase. Its important to note that the term vintage jewelry encompasses an extended time period, beginning in 1714 when the Georgian era began, all the way up to the 1950s and 1960s. Therefore, it is helpful for one to know which era a piece belongs to before making a buying decision.
If a person is simply looking for vintage jewelry that he or she finds appealing, rather than for a specific period piece, the most important thing to examine is the condition in which the jewelry piece is found. This includes items such as the clasp of the piece. One can also help to identify the era from which the jewelry originated by looking closely at the clasp.
When examining the condition of the piece it is important to remember that certain vintage jewelry designs will feature a dated look due to their age, but this is does not necessarily a reflect the quality of the piece. It is important to examine the jewelry for missing gems, discolored rhinestones, chipped enamel, or other serious defects. Jewelry that features a sloppy stone replacement or haphazard repairs should be passed over, especially if the price is high.
One should never compromise quality when selecting vintage jewelry. One of the greatest things about such jewelry is that most pieces were handmade, especially those made in the 1800s or from an earlier period. If a piece commands a hefty price, it should show meticulous craftsmanship, good weight, pronged settings, clear gems and smooth plating. If properly made, it should not wear down with age but rather become better as time goes on.
When shopping for vintage jewelry, care should also be taken to buy pieces that suit the purchaser's personality. If the jewelry is being purchased for someone else, it is important to make sure it is an appropriate choice for the recipient. Not everyone has the same taste, therefore before buying a costly item, it is essential that the purchaser know the preferences of the intended recipient. For example, a young girl will have a different idea of an ideal jewelry piece than an older woman may have.
One terrific thing about vintage jewelry is the history associated with certain pieces. This is especially true if they feature precious or semi-precious stones and were made in the 1800s. One should make every effort to discover the history behind the piece before it is purchased. The shopper should not be hesitant to ask questions to the dealer, especially if the piece is being purchased for someone who is familiar with vintage jewelry. Those purchasing jewelry for themselves should also discover a little about the history of the piece, as this information can be fun to talk about at a party or other social setting.
Finally, it is essential that the shopper be aware of the fact that each jewelry era was associated with a specific type of metal. The type of metal used in the jewelry can help to identify the piece, as certain metals were more popular than others throughout the centuries. For instance, during World War II, there was a shortage of types of metals, therefore sterling silver was often used.
As with any vintage purchase, it takes a well-trained eye to find a genuine bargain. Therefore, one should devote a suitable amount of time to research before making a final decision about a particular piece. This way, the shopper can be sure that the most suitable vintage jewelry is selected.
by: Carolyn Nyman
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