Before taking your antique jewelry piece to the jewelry shop, use these three simple methods to know whether you have found a valuable piece or not. Once you confirm that it is valuable, go to an appraisal to identify the actual value of your discovery.
Antique jewelry can be often identified by their style. Simple way by which you can identify antique jewelry is to first check for hallmarks. Hallmarks are a good way of identifying the age of the jewelry and also the purity of gold. Many of the hallmarks are organized by time period with some covering a particular jewelry era only. A Hallmark is usually engraved inside the jewel piece, on the post or clasp in case of earring and necklace respectively. Engraving on jewels more than 100 years might get worn off with time and use. So if you don’t find a hallmark be assured that this alone doesn’t mean that it is antique.
Antique Jewellery Value Estimator
The value of antique jewelry is often affected and dependent on three factors, namely – condition, time period and the type of jewelry. The older the jewel piece, the more is its value.
- Condition: The resale or antique jewellery exchange largely depends on the condition of the antique jewel. Be gentle and careful while handling or cleaning an antique piece. In addition to this, discoloration as well as faulty prongs, clasp or posts may decrease the value.
- Time period: Antique jewelry can be classified into four popular time periods;
- Georgian (1714-1837): The Georgian period is the oldest and longest period which is known for its love of yellow gold, elaborate designs, and precious gemstones. The popularity of the styles of georgian era is still persistent today commercially available. Popular jewel pieces or designs include necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, brooches, and crowns.
- Victorian (1840-1890): Inspired by the styles of Queen Victoria, the Victorian majorly displays the most famous and personal favourite jewel collections adored by the Queen herself. It was this era, where jewelries were majorly experimented and studded with precious gemstones.
- Art Nouveau (1890-1910): Known for their distinctive style, Art Nouveau jewelry is characterized by nature-inspired designs, smooth, sweeping curves. Stones such as opal, amber, and moonstone were more popular in this time period.
- Edwardian (1901-1910): Named after King Edward VII, the period is known for its simplicity in designs. white gold and platinum became popular during the era. It carried with itself the femininity from the Victorian era with lacy and floral designs.
- Type of jewelry: Each period is characterized by its styling and unique designs. By identifying the type of the jewelry you can know the time period your antique jewel may be referring to. Also, read: How to measure bangle size
Is antique Jewellery a Good Investment?
Investing in jewellery without giving a thought on the journey, strength and weakness of the jewel piece from a certain era, may imply that you have missed the key factor. You may be aware of the system where when something becomes desirable but is in low supply, the demand and the value for it increases. The system is universal even in the world of antique and jewelry.
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