| Buying antique jewelry can be a great way to obtain | | | | collectors focus on the Victorian age. |
| high-quality stones and pieces that are dazzling, rare | | | | Meanwhile, the antique jewelry from the Art Deco |
| and hard-to-find in contemporary retailers. You can | | | | design era (1920-1930) attracts a lot of attention |
| also find great deals, though buyers should be wary | | | | thanks to its unique shapes and overall style. Because |
| of any deal that seems too good to be true. | | | | of the industrial aesthetic, these pieces are distinct |
| In this article, we'll cover the basics on how to | | | | and highly valued amongst collectors. |
| protect yourself when purchasing antique jewelry and | | | | What about modern "antiques?" What are they? |
| what to look for in a good piece. So, if you want to | | | | Because these styles are so popular, many jewelers |
| learn more about antique jewelry shopping, keep | | | | are carrying pieces that look like antiques, but are |
| reading. | | | | actually made today. They're not original Victorian |
| So, is it antique or vintage? | | | | brooches or Art Deco bracelets, but they're made to |
| There's actually a distinction between vintage pieces | | | | look like it. These can be a great option for someone |
| and antique pieces. Typically, a vintage piece of | | | | who wants the wearability and durability of a modern |
| jewelry may be about 30 to 70 years old, while an | | | | piece, but the look and style of an antique. |
| antique piece could be hundreds or thousands of | | | | If I'm buying an antique, how can I be sure it's real? |
| years old (in which case it should be in a museum). | | | | Always get every aspect of the piece in writing from |
| What are the most popular antique jewelry pieces? | | | | the retailer, including the stone carats and quality. |
| Most dealers offer a range of antique pieces, but | | | | Then, have the piece appraised by an independent |
| collectors tend to prize pieces from the Victorian era | | | | appraiser. If it doesn't match the description given to |
| and the Art Deco period of the early twentieth | | | | you by the retailer, return the item for a full refund |
| century. Jewelry from the Victorian period | | | | or ask to renegotiate the purchase price. |
| (1837-1901) tends to exude grace and history, while | | | | To prevent potential fraud or misrepresentation |
| still exhibiting modern craftsmanship and quality. | | | | problems, always deal with reputable and respected |
| Pieces from earlier periods tend to be cruder and the | | | | dealers who offer a clear and easy-to-understand |
| stones of a lower grade, which is why jewelry | | | | return policy. |