| Have some vintage jewelry? There are several ways | | | | building relationships will reap far more rewards for |
| you can sell collectible or vintage costume jewelry. | | | | you in the long run! |
| How much your vintage jewelry is worth depends on | | | | 2. Dealers seldom pay more than 30% of market |
| several things. First and foremost, you need to know | | | | value. |
| what you have and the condition it is in. Refer to our | | | | An honest dealer is going to give you a fair appraisal, |
| first article for helpful tips on old jewelry research. | | | | they are not trying to take advantage of you. |
| You may consider taking your jewelry to a dealer. If | | | | Remember, not only do they have business costs |
| so, first you need to find a dealer, preferably one | | | | but they are taking risks too. It may not sell right |
| with experience in old jewelry. Look in your local | | | | away, it may not sell for a long time. It may not sell |
| phone book and get on the phone. Investing time by | | | | at all. They are often more willing to give you more if |
| calling ahead and talking to them will give some idea | | | | they think it will sell quickly. Retail must "turn" their |
| on who you are dealing with and how comfortable | | | | inventory within certain amounts of time to stay |
| you will be. Don't expect appraisals over the phone, a | | | | profitable. Consider you own expectations. Know |
| dealer usually needs to see and touch it. Here are | | | | who you are dealing with and the reputation of their |
| some other things you should know about dealers: | | | | shop; if you can't agree on a price, don't sell your |
| Dealers | | | | vintage jewelry or ask about consignment options. |
| When taking your jewelry to a local dealer, keep in | | | | Consignment can be a "win-win" arrangement for all. |
| mind there are important considerations about | | | | The dealer limits their risks and you get closer to the |
| dealers: | | | | price you want. |
| 1. Be respectful of their time and knowledge. | | | | 3. Take notes. |
| If you are only interested in information and not | | | | Even if you only bring in one piece of jewelry, you |
| planning on selling your vintage jewelry, tell them | | | | are probably not going to remember everything you |
| upfront (ideally on the phone). Offer to pay them for | | | | learn. It's ok to jot down information and ask |
| an hour of their time. Some will politely refuse | | | | questions. |
| compensation, others will charge you a nominal fee. It | | | | 4. Have fun! |
| depends on the individual. Remember, they have | | | | Researching old vintage jewelry can be fascinating! |
| most likely spent years collecting knowledge and | | | | You never know what you may find out and it's |
| expertise. And sadly, too many people expect them | | | | quite possible you just may be hooked for life! |
| to "share" that information openly. Good manners and | | | | |