If you have decided to buy vintage jewelry, you may be wondering about its characteristics. What makes a piece vintage? What materials are used? And, what is the cost of vintage jewelry? In this article we will explore some of the key features of vintage jewelry and how to find the perfect piece. But before we discuss the costs, we need to discuss what vintage jewelry is. Moreover, we will also explore what is so special about vintage jewelry, so that you can make an informed decision.
Characteristics of vintage jewelry
To distinguish vintage jewelry from used pieces, you must consider some important characteristics. Antique jewelry was created before 1989, while used jewelry is made after that year. A well-crafted piece will still have all of its features and should still be functional. Moreover, all gemstones should be securely set in their settings, the metals used should be durable, and the plating must be intact. These characteristics will help you determine the value of your purchase.
There are many types of vintage jewelry. You can find pieces that are highly prized. The Art Deco style, for example, features sleek designs and simple curves. These pieces speak of fun and fancy. Gemstones are commonly used in these designs. Because silver was more affordable in this time period, it was commonly used in this style. In addition, Art Deco jewelry was often made of gemstones of a vibrant color.
Materials used in vintage jewelry
Antique or vintage pieces can be made of various materials. Metal and gemstones are commonly used in pieces made of these materials. Gutta percha, a rubber-like substance harvested from trees in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, was used to create pieces in the 1840s. Later, it was used as a cheaper alternative to jet in mourning jewelry. Various metals were used for the backings, including bronze, brass, copper, and gold.
The most common metal used in Antique jewelry is gold. Platinum is one of the rarest metals and was used in jewelry until the early 20th century. Its white brilliance, malleability, and resistance to acid made it a popular choice for jewelry. As the 19th century developed, the production of nickel silver exploded. Today, the metal is used in vintage pieces, although some pieces are still made of pot metal. Nickel silver was a cheaper alternative to silver and is often plated with silver. Some pieces are marked EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). Rhodium is a silver-colored metal that is smooth and will not tarnish like gold or silver.
Styles of vintage jewelry
Antique jewelry can be a fantastic investment, as well as a fascinating glimpse into the styles of the past. Some of the best pieces of vintage jewelry have intricate engraving, milgrain details, shimmering colored gemstones, and geometric designs. While you will find plenty of Antique jewelry for sale today, you should do some detective work to find the right pieces. Thankfully, you can find the perfect vintage jewelry online, at flea markets, or even in your local antique shop.
If you are worried about the resale value of vintage jewelry, don’t worry! Most vintage pieces have already been through their resale cycle. That means you’ll never have to worry about buying a piece of jewelry that looks like it belongs to every other person on the planet. In fact, vintage jewelry may even increase in value over time, due to the materials and brands used. It’s worth the trouble to take the time to look at the history behind your vintage piece of jewelry.
Cost of vintage jewelry
If you are planning to purchase a piece of Antique jewelry, then you should learn about its hallmarks. Hallmarks are small inscriptions or pictures that indicate the origin or date of the piece. Hallmarks help you identify the piece and confirm its authenticity. Each country uses a different symbol to identify its products. Check the hallmarks on the piece and see if they are intact. A vintage jeweler’s signature is difficult to fake, so you must take care to identify it accurately.
Most people own some form of jewelry, from earrings to bracelets. Some pieces of Antique jewelry are clip-on, while others are pierced. The key is to diversify your collection, so that you can give something new and different to every loved one. If you don’t have much money to spend on a piece of Antique jewelry, you can purchase inexpensive items and diversify your collection. Charm bracelets and earrings are common items that everyone will want, but make sure you know exactly what you want and why you want it.