If you recently bought a vintage item at a discount jewelry store and you really want to know its real value, you can have it appraised. How should you do it and who can you approach? Read on below.
Look for Clues
Before looking for a professional appraiser, check for clues in the jewelry itself that can somehow give you a hint of the item's history. Look for markings like letters and numbers.
The letters "GF" means gold-filled and "HGE" for heavy gold electroplate. GF and HE pieces are of less value than those with markings like 14K and 10K. Pure gold is 24 Karats but it is too soft to hold the jewelry's shape so most gold jewelry is mixed with other metals. The higher the K, the more gold mixed with the other metals.
For silver jewelry, sterling is the highest grade and can be marked as .925, 92.5 or 925. However, the value of your vintage discount jewelry is not only directly proportional to its composition. Some items are valued more for the date it was made, manufacturer or who owned it before.
Consult Local Antique Stores
Most local antique stores have in-house appraisers that charge nominal fees. You can have your discount jewelry appraised and have an idea on how valuable the item is.
Look for a Professional Jewelry Appraiser
Ask your friends and other vintage jewelry enthusiasts if they know somebody who is a practicing professional appraiser. It is important to have your item professionally appraised if you want it covered by your insurance company.