| Remember when you were a little girl and Mom or | | | | much whether you like it, but it must be in good |
| Grandma let you play with her jewelry box? All those | | | | condition. |
| pins, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings were so | | | | 3. Is it a good investment, if that's why you are |
| much fun to wear, and to pretend you were a | | | | buying it? Is it signed (is the manufacturer's mark on |
| grown-up lady. | | | | the piece)? Is it part of a growing trend, such as |
| Vintage costume jewelry, like those long-gone | | | | Christmas jewelry, or '60s flower power? |
| treasures (or, if you were lucky enough to inherit | | | | 4. Is it signed? Designer-signed jewelry is generally a |
| them, the precious mementos you have kept) can | | | | good investment. Invest in a jeweler's loupe (small |
| be found at very reasonable prices. | | | | magnifying glass) so you can find the signature - it |
| There are 5 major things to consider when buying | | | | may be on the back, on the stem of a brooch, on |
| vintage costume jewelry for your personal collection, | | | | the screw-back or clip of an earring, or on a clasp. |
| or as an investment. | | | | 5. Are there any added features? Jewelry sets of |
| 1. First of all, do you like it? If you're going to own it, | | | | two or more pieces are highly collectible. The original |
| admire it, display it and wear it, you need to like it. It | | | | box adds value, as do original price and |
| doesn't matter what it is, what it looks like to others | | | | manufacturer's tags. |
| - the most important thing is that you like it. | | | | Have fun with your collection! Learn more about |
| 2. Next, consider its condition. Be sure that the | | | | vintage costume jewelry from books, internet |
| vintage piece is in good condition. Does the hardware | | | | searches and blogs. Just looking through a price guide |
| work properly? Are all stones intact? Are metal | | | | will give you inspiration and hours of pleasure. But |
| finishes worn away? If you are considering the | | | | beware! Collecting vintage costume jewelry can |
| purchase as an investment, it doesn't matter as | | | | become addictive! |