Look Out For When Buying Vintage Jewellery
The terms vintage and antique are often used interchangeably, but there are some important differences between the two that could save you a lot of money if you know what to look out for. For example, it’s extremely important to understand that vintage jewellery refers to pieces that were made 20 or more years ago whereas antique jewellery refers to items that are over 100 years old and can even go back to ancient times. If you find that a seller is using these terms incorrectly, it should be considered a major red flag and you should take the time to learn more about the differences.
When buying vintage jewellery, it’s always best to shop with a knowledgeable jeweler. They’ll be able to help you sort out the difference between cheap vintage costume jewelry and more valuable pieces that can also make you feel like a princess when worn. However, if you’re shopping on your own and want to do your research before heading out to buy vintage jewellery, there are 3 things that you should keep an eye out for.
One of the most common mistakes that people make when shopping for vintage jewellery is failing to consider what their purchase is actually made out of. For instance, the type of metal can make a huge difference in price. Gold is generally the most expensive, but if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly you might want to opt for silver instead.
3 Things to Look Out For When Buying Vintage Jewellery
Similarly, the gemstones that are used in a piece can greatly impact its overall value as well. Diamonds are typically the most valuable, but gems like opals and lapis lazuli have their own charms too.
The most obvious way to determine if your jewellery is authentic is by examining it closely. As mentioned above, the item should be ‘old’ in terms of being worn down or having a ‘patina’, but it’s also worth considering whether or not the piece is dated and signed. Having a signature on a vintage piece is a surefire way to boost its value as it proves the piece has been genuine for a long time.
While it’s always best to shop for vintage jewellery in person, especially if you’re after fine pieces, online shopping can still be a great option. The likes of Etsy are a good place to start since they work with small brands and artisans around the world, including many that sell vintage and antique pieces. In addition, the site’s helpful filters (including a ‘vintage and antique’ checkbox) can make your search much easier.
The main thing to remember when shopping for vintage jewellery is that it’s all about quality over quantity. By choosing to buy quality pieces rather than many different “almost right” ones, you’ll be conserving the earth’s resources as well as making a great fashion statement. In fact, if you want to be even greener, opt for ethically sourced vintage jewellery from the likes of The Idol’s Eye and Vintage WhimZ, both of which ship their pieces carbon-neutrally.